What is Pedodontics?
Pedodontics is a branch of dentistry dedicated to the treatment of children and young people, including the treatment of dental problems related to primary teeth (temporary teeth) as well as permanent teeth. Paediatric dental specialists take care of the proper development of teeth and gums, treat problems such as cavities, dental injections, and can offer advice on the prevention of oral problems in the future.
Why is Pedodontics Important?
Dental care for children is important for many reasons:
- Healthy oral development: Damage to children’s teeth can affect the development of permanent teeth and can cause lasting oral problems, which may have an impact on overall health and self-esteem.
- Prevention of cavities: Dental cavities are one of the most common dental problems in children, and treating them at an early age can help preserve the primary teeth, which are important for the development of permanent teeth.
- Teaching good oral hygiene habits: Paediatric dental specialists teach children the importance of brushing their teeth and help develop healthy oral hygiene habits that can last throughout their lifetime.
Services Provided by Paediatric Dentists
- Paediatric dentists carry out regular visits to check the health of the child’s teeth, to treat cavities in their early stages and to provide teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
- Deep teeth cleaning (Scaling): This treatment is important for removing deposits that cannot be removed with a toothbrush.
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that occur during childhood. Paediatric dentists offer treatments such as dental fillings, which help restore the function of damaged teeth and prevent the further spread of infection.
- Paediatric dentists treat teeth that may have been broken or damaged by accidents, and can offer options such as crowns (tooth coverings) to protect damaged teeth.
- In more severe cases, it may be necessary to place a temporary filling.
Children are more prone to tooth injuries during play or other activities, and paediatric dentists treat broken or damaged teeth resulting from accidents with appropriate procedures.
Fluoridation is a treatment used to strengthen tooth enamel and to prevent the development of cavities. This treatment is particularly suited to children who may be at risk of developing cavities.
Sealants are thin, plastic materials that can be applied to the surface of children’s teeth to prevent the accumulation of plaque and the development of cavities on the surfaces of the back teeth (molars).
More than 50% of children develop gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) during adolescence. Paediatric dentists treat this condition with cleanings and the improvement of oral hygiene.
Paediatric dentists can also refer children who require orthodontic treatment, such as the use of braces to correct problems with tooth alignment.
Children are taught the correct way to brush their teeth and use dental floss, as well as the importance of a healthy diet for their teeth.