Pediatric Dentistry

curly haired boy smiling vigorously

What is pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is dental care designed specifically to care for the developing teeth of children and adolescents. Pediatric dentistry is actually a form of preventive dentistry that takes into consideration the natural development of teeth and bone in children. It aims to protect children from dental problems that may become worse as they grow into adults.

Pediatric dentistry also includes educational components that help young children learn about oral health and proper oral hygiene. This way, they develop healthy oral habits from a young age and practice them throughout their lifetime.

At what age should children begin to get dental checkups?

Although it may come as a surprise to many parents, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children be examined by a dentist for the first time no later than at the age of 1, or within six months after the eruption of the first baby tooth.

Why is pediatric dentistry important?

Pediatric dentistry is extremely important because it sets your child up to pay attention to their oral health – and by extension to their overall health. It teaches them from an early age about the importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Routine pediatric dental visits also take care of any developing problems your child might have while their teeth and bones are still young and pliable. At this stage, any necessary corrections are much easier on the body and on your pocketbook than if conditions were left untreated until adulthood. Pediatric dentistry ensures a future of bright smiles maintained by great oral health habits learned at a young age and practiced for an entire lifetime.

What kinds of treatments are included in routine pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry involves routine dental exams. During these exams, our professional staff will check the entire oral cavity and take digital x-rays of the mouth. This exposes any problems that may be occurring below the gum line and maybe undetectable with the naked eye.

At O’Connor Dental Care in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, we provide routine dental checkups, oral cancer screenings, diagnosis and treatment of cavities, as well as orthodontic evaluations and referrals for braces or other orthodontic work if needed. We will check the condition of the teeth, gums, and underlying bone tissue in search of any signs of possible future problems.

We also recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatments in order to protect your child’s precious teeth as they develop. These sealants are usually applied once the baby teeth have all fully come in, and again once the permanent teeth have finished growing in.

Dr. Emily also takes the time to talk at length with our youngest patients about how to properly take care of their teeth and gums. They will also discuss the importance of routine dental checkups. By establishing good oral hygiene habits in childhood, the likelihood of children’s commitment to their oral hygiene and dental care is highly increased. This is actually our favorite part of working with pediatric patients.