Dentist in Marysville, WA Discusses Pediatric Dentistry
Of course, there’s nothing more important to a parent than the health of their children. And, as part of their overall well-being, a parent’s responsibilities involve making sure their children’s teeth are well taken care of.
Parents know that baby teeth don’t last a lifetime, however, if neglected, baby teeth can still cause long-term damage in a child’s mouth.
Luckily, there’s a specialized type of dentist who is trained in dealing specifically with infant and young children. These are known as pediatric dentists.
Below, your dentist in Marysville, WA shares what a pediatric dentist is and how they can help take care of your child’s mouth.
What is a pediatric dentist?
A pediatric dentist is just like a general dentist; however, they’re specialized in dealing with children. This requires them to be licensed as a certified specialist in pediatric dentistry. Therefore, not all dentists are qualified to treat patients in this area of expertise.
One of the main goals of a pediatric dentist is to make dental appointments more enjoyable for young children. This is important because children react differently than adults, which means that a pediatric dentist must be knowledgeable in dentistry, as well as dealing with children.
What do pediatric dentists treat?
One of a pediatric dentist’s main area of expertise is dealing with infant children. Infants get upset at the slightest sign of irritation and are not very responsive when it comes to requesting that they keep their mouths open. Regardless, a pediatric dentist will examine a young infant’s teeth and identify any signs of decay or disease. Also, in severe cases, a pediatric dentist may have to perform minor surgery on an infant.
Pediatric dentists are trained to deal with a child’s basic dental care needs. This involves regular procedures such as routine examinations and cleanings. Furthermore, they are experts in teaching parents how to deal with problems such as thumb sucking. Pediatric dentists are also able to make recommendations about diet and nutrition, which can have a significant impact on the development of adult teeth.
What to expect at your pediatric dental appointment?
Much like any other type of dental visit, you’ll start by scheduling an appointment at a convenient time. When you arrive at the office, you’ll first check in and fill out any required documents. Typically, staff will also ask you the age of your child, as it often takes longer to treat younger children.
It’s always a good idea to be in the exam room with your child. The dentist may have questions for you and this way, you’re also able to ask any questions that you might have in mind. At the same time, this ensures that your child will be more comfortable during the exam.
By now, it’s clear that pediatric dentists are skilled caregivers that are necessary when taking care of a child’s teeth. If you’re dealing with a pediatric dentist, know that they are well trained and specialized, and that your child’s oral health is in good hands.
