At 91%, 2019 saw the dentist's highest ever among children between ages 2 and 17 years. A child dental specialist is whom you should take your child to when you think they need to visit a dentist arises. They are oral health care professionals who specialize in treating children. After getting a general dentist degree, they take an additional two years to study children's oral health issues before becoming professional pediatric dentists.
A child's dental needs vary significantly from an adult's. Therefore, visiting any dentist will not work. A specialist who knows the dental concerns that your child faces. You can ask the specialist these five questions and have them answered to put your fears at ease. When you are looking for a dentist, it is important that you find the right kids dentist that will work for you and your child will be comfortable with.
How are They Different?
Child dental specialists are different from other dentists specializing in oral child care. Your children are not small adults, and therefore, their oral health needs specialized care. The habits and consideration they are given at a young age will help build lifelong habits. Apart from dentistry, pediatric dentists also study child psychology which helps them alleviate their patients' fears and apprehensions. They are also trained in treating infants and children with special needs.
What Conditions Do They Treat?
Anything from a crooked tooth to cavity and gum disease, these specialists will handle your child's entire oral care regimen. You can visit them to correct malocclusion, over and underbite, misaligned jaw, cavities, gum problems, delay in tooth eruption, premature tooth fall, and much more.
When to First Take a Kid to a Dentist?
You should take your child when they are about a year old or when their first tooth erupts, whichever is earlier. After your first visit, the dentist will recommend the frequency of your stops based on what they find in your child's mouth.
How to Avoid Cavities?
Children tend to eat high-sugar-containing foods, resulting in food items being stuck in their teeth. If not cleaned, it can cause bacteria to foster, and tooth decay begins.
Cavities are the most common problem children have, and not caring for them quickly can aggravate it.
They can help establish a care routine and recommend the right toothpaste to prevent cavities. Usually, toothpaste that contains fluoride is best to fight cavities. They can also counsel you and your child about healthy oral habits that go a long way in maintaining dental health.
How to Protect Children's Teeth While They Play Sports?
Sports such as hockey, basketball, football, and simply running can also injure your child's tooth. This is a concern with many parents, and your child dental specialist can give you the right advice on what to do. They can prescribe a mouth guard based on your child's dental condition.
A child dentist plays a vital role in the oral health of your child's oral hygiene. They treat tooth concerns and provide counseling to parents and children on maintaining dental health. A specialist can ensure that dental concerns are the least of their problems as children grow into adulthood. Starting early can fix most problems before they take root.
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