Pediatric Dentistry
We at Bayou Dental are happy to see children of any age in our office. We make every effort to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children, and always avoid threatening words like “drill,” “needle,” and “injection.” Dental phobias beginning in childhood often continue into adulthood, so it is of paramount importance that children have positive experiences and find their “dental home” as early as possible. If your child has needs that we are unable to accommodate, we will connect you with a Pediatric Dentist that is convenient to you and can help partner with us to care for your child.
Pediatric dentistry primarily focuses on children from birth through adolescence. The American Dental Association (ADA), recognizes Pediatric Dentistry as a specialty, and therefore requires Board Certified Pediatric Dentists to undertake two or three years of additional training after completing their general dentistry degree. At the end of this training, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry issues a unique diploma (Diplomate ABPD). Some pediatric dentists (previously referred to as Pedodontists) also specialize in oral care for children with special needs; specifically children with autism, varying levels of mental retardation, or cerebral palsy.
What Type of Dentistry do Children and Adolescents Need?
Kids and young adults can have the same needs as adults, and we are here to monitor your child’s overall oral health and hygiene. We place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth.
Other important functions include:
Education - The Dental Team will educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology; thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy. In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.
Monitoring growth – By continuously tracking growth and development, dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image. The dental Specialty of Orthodontics primarily focuses on growth and development, and we can help connect your child to a convenient Orthodontist if we think that Orthodontic intervention is necessary.
Prevention – Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay. In addition to providing check ups and dental cleanings, dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.
Intervention – In some cases, dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.
If you have questions or concerns about dentistry for your child or young adult, please contact our office.
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