What is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is a branch of dentistry that deals with the oral and dental health issues of infants, children, and individuals requiring special care (such as those with disabilities). It addresses the problems in the oral-dental region of your child from the newborn period (0-28 days) to the end of the adolescent period (10-18 years).
Importance of Choosing Pediatric Dentistry
Having children's first dental examinations and treatments performed by a pediatric dentist is an important step in eliminating potential dental anxiety in the future, leading to more compliant and health-conscious individuals. Pediatric dentists aim to gain the child's trust and affection through appropriate psychological approaches, and then perform pain-free dental treatments with a gradual approach from easy to difficult.
When Should the First Dental Examination Be Done?
The first dental examination is necessary when the first primary tooth erupts, ideally by the age of 1 year.
When Should Babies Start Brushing Their Teeth?
Babies' teeth and gums should be cleaned starting with the eruption of the first primary tooth (around the 6th month). After the age of 1, an age-appropriate toothbrush can be used, either without toothpaste or with fluoride toothpaste in appropriate amounts.
Why Do Primary Teeth Decay?
Tooth decay is an infectious and contagious disease. This infection is primarily transmitted to the child from family members. If the parents have tooth decay and gum disease, the child is also at risk.
Primary teeth contain more organic matter compared to permanent teeth, making them more susceptible to decay. Generally, children do not respond much during the early stages of decay. However, as decay progresses, sensitivity to cold and sweet substances increases, leading to pain in the decayed teeth. Pain typically worsens during meals due to food particles exerting pressure on the gums. If not treated during this period, serious issues may arise from the inflammation of decayed teeth.
Particularly during the infant stage up to age 3, factors like nighttime bottle-feeding, giving sugary foods on pacifiers, and prolonged contact of pacifiers with teeth are significant contributors to tooth decay. Additionally, starting solid foods at an early age and consuming market products can accelerate the decay process.
What Should Be Done for Healthy Primary Teeth?
Instead of merely giving advice, we should lead by example. We need to guide children to brush their teeth diligently in the morning and evening, and check if necessary. Brushing teeth together with parents is an important step, and children should have their teeth checked by parents after brushing.
To encourage tooth brushing, colorful toothbrushes and suitable toothpaste recommended by pediatric dentists can be purchased. It is essential to educate children about harmful foods. Avoiding packaged products is one of the most important steps toward healthy eating.
