Dental Care: Common Pediatric Dental Procedures

Pediatric and adult dental procedures differ slightly but are relatively similar. Because children’s teeth are still developing, they require more frequent dental visits. A pediatric dentist should monitor their development to ensure everything is going well.

Seeing a pediatric dentist is highly recommended. They are skilled dental professionals who can provide routine care to maintain children’s oral health. The common practices in a pediatric dental office are covered in this article. Are you taking your kids to the dentist? You might find this information helpful.

Pediatric Dental Procedures

What are other dental procedures available for children? A few pediatric dental procedures are described below. These are the most common among children. Continue reading for more information.

Dental Cleanings

Another common and important pediatric dental procedure is having a child visit a dental hygienist for regular cleanings. Routine cleanings are necessary because children’s teeth are more prone to cavities due to excessive sugar consumption and poor oral hygiene. Dental cleanings are typically simple, allowing the hygienist and pediatric dentist to remove any accumulated plaque that could later harden into tartar. Continue reading to learn more about proper dental care.

Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the pediatric dentists’ most common dental procedures. Children’s teeth are susceptible to decay, which can lead to cavities. They can sometimes treat cavities with a quick and simple dental filling procedure. They will numb the infected tooth, and the pediatric dentist will remove any damaged areas.

Following dental drilling, the tooth will be filled with a material selected by the dentist and the parent. Silver amalgam and ceramic porcelain are common materials that are both long-lasting and capable of sealing the tooth.

Orthodontic Care

Orthodontic care is necessary for children and adults, but it is more common in children. Braces are typically used to correct crooked, crowded, or overlapping teeth. A “bad bite” can cause problems in children, usually in the form of an overbite or underbite. During a dental visit, your dentist is likely to notice problems. It is best to schedule an appointment to see what can be done to assist in treating your child.

Braces may not always be necessary. If they are, there are numerous brace options available to them. Clear Invisalign trays, traditional metal braces, and even clear porcelain braces blend in with the teeth (though they will require metal ones on the bottom).

Extractions

Tooth extraction is another common pediatric dental procedure. As surprising as it may appear, many children require extractions during childhood. When teeth become overly infected or insufficient space in the mouth, a pediatric dentist may recommend that the tooth be extracted. Extractions can be frightening for children, but pediatric dentists are trained to perform this procedure on them. Localized numbing is used to make the child less sensitive to pain.

X-Rays

X-rays are essential tools that dentists frequently use to monitor what’s going on inside your child’s mouth. They’re relatively safe for children, but it’s best to take as few as possible to obtain the necessary information. This applies to people of all ages. When possible, you should keep radiation exposure to a minimum. If a child is at high risk for tooth decay, it is best to get an X-ray every 6-12 months. That number drops to 12-24 months for low-risk children. Look for pediatric dental clinics that offer this service.

Bottom Line

Some people are scared of dental procedures, but it’s important to remember that they’re not all bad — especially with the right pediatric dentist. Remember that no matter what procedure your child needs, it is crucial that they feel at ease with the person performing it. Because you want the best for your children, obtaining the best dental care from a pediatric dentist will help them develop good oral hygiene habits at a young age.