Pediatric Dentist

What is Pedodontics?

Pedodontics is the field of pediatric dentists who specialize in the dental care of children from their first teeth through their teenage years. It has a wide range of areas, including preventive (cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants) restorative (fillings, crowns, pulp therapy) and emergency treatment for damaged teeth.

The pediatric dentist is responsible for teaching children and parents about good oral hygiene, nutrition and how to improve habits such as using a pacifier or thumb sucking.

Pediatric dentists are prepared to deal with the special needs of children with behavioral problems, fear of visiting the dentist and physical, emotional or mental disabilities. Through a constructive and encouraging dental visit, they lay the groundwork for lifelong oral health.

Child Dental Health Services

Pedodontists, also known as pediatric dentists, are trained to provide comprehensive dental care for infants, children, teenagers and those with special needs. The main services offered by pedodontists include regular dental examinations, cleanings, fluoride application and preventive care through dental sealants to prevent cavities.

They teach children and parents about oral health and how to brush, floss and eat properly to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Orthodontic evaluations at an early age are also a valuable service that can help detect crowding, bite problems or misaligned jaws that may require treatment.

In addition to prevention, pedodontists also perform restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns and pulp therapy (baby root canals) to stop tooth decay or cavities.

They are skilled in treating dental trauma, including chipped, broken or knocked-out teeth. They provide emergency care when needed. For children with anxiety or special needs, they use behavior management techniques, sedation dentistry or general anesthesia to make the experience pleasant.

Using space maintainers to protect gaps caused by the early loss of baby teeth. They do not cause alignment problems in the future. By providing a range of specialized care in a suitable environment for children, the pediatric dentist makes an important contribution to establishing lifelong healthy oral habits and healthy dental routines at an early age.

Preventing Tooth Decay in Children

Preventing tooth decay in childhood is vital to their well-being and health. Developing an oral health routine at an early age is one of the most effective ways to protect your child's teeth.

Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. For children three years and older, use only a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Flossing can also be started as soon as the teeth touch each other.

Flossing will dislodge food and plaque particles between the teeth. Say no to sugary foods and drinks such as sweets, fruit juices and fizzy drinks, which energize the bacteria that cause cavities. Instead, make sure you consume fruits, vegetables and water.

Another important step in preventing tooth decay in children is regular visits to the dentist. Plan your child's first visit to the dentist on their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.

Pediatric dentists can detect early decay and clean teeth professionally. They can provide dental fillings or fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel.

Educating your child about the importance of oral hygiene and being a good role model yourself can also make a significant difference. By instilling good habits and keeping an active mindset, you can help your child have healthy, cavity-free teeth for the rest of their lives.

Best Toothpaste and Toothbrush for Children

Choosing the best toothpaste and toothbrush for children is important to protect their oral health and make brushing teeth an enjoyable experience. When choosing toothpaste, make sure it contains fluoride because fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and protects against cavities.

For young children under the age of three, use a rice-sized amount of toothpaste, but for children between the ages of three and six, use a pea-sized amount.

Look for toothpastes with child-friendly flavors and National Health Service(NHS) approved toothpastes that ensure effectiveness and safety. Avoid abrasive or whitening toothpastes as they are too harsh for children's teeth. Encourage more enjoyable and regular toothbrushing by letting your child choose a favorite flavor.

For toothbrushes, choose ones specially designed for children, with soft bristles and a small head that fits easily in their mouth. Manual and electric toothbrushes can both be used.

An electric toothbrush with a timer or music feature can make brushing more fun for children. Replace the toothbrush after three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are worn out.

To continue encouraging healthy habits, ask your child to choose a toothbrush with their favorite color or character. By making the right toothpaste and brush choices for your child, you can help your child build a strong oral care routine that will reward you with a lifetime of healthy smiles.

When Should Braces Be Used for Children?

Braces are usually recommended between the ages of 9 and 14, when the jaws and teeth are still developing and can be easily guided into the correct alignment. Still, the age depends on the patient's dental needs.

According to the National Health Service, some may require an orthodontic examination as early as age 7. This initial evaluation allows orthodontists to identify potential problems such as crowding, bite concerns or misaligned jaws and determine when to begin treatment.

Braces are necessary when there are significant orthodontic problems that affect oral health, function or appearance. The most common reasons for braces are crooked or crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, cross bites, gaps between teeth and misaligned jaws.

Orthodontic problems can lead to difficulties with chewing, speaking or oral hygiene, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Sometimes braces are also necessary to address beauty issues and boost confidence.

Orthodontic treatment is highly individualized, so an appointment with an orthodontist is necessary to determine if and when your child will need braces. Early intervention can make treatment shorter or easier. A healthy, beautiful smile is easier to achieve.

Beating Fear of the Dentist in Children

Dealing with fear of the dentist in children requires patience, understanding and an active effort to make things fun. Start by introducing the idea of visiting the dentist at an early age, preferably when they are one year old or have their first tooth.

Use age-appropriate books, videos or role-playing games to explain what happens during a dental visit in a fun and non-threatening way.

Choose a pediatric dentist who deals with children because they know how to make them comfortable and relaxed. Tell your child in advance what will be done, but say it in a positive way instead of using the words “pain” or “ache”.

Some words will make them more nervous. For example, describe it in a positive way, such as making their teeth strong and healthy. Stay positive and calm during the visit, as children will sense their parents' attitudes.

Pediatric dental offices are usually child-friendly. There are toys, colors and a friendly staff who use methods such as “tell-tell-do” to explain procedures in a non-threatening way.

Praise your child for being brave and reinforce good behavior with stickers or a special activity. For very anxious children, pediatric dentists use sedation therapy or gradual exposure to build long-term confidence.

You should develop a positive attitude towards dental hygiene and make visits part of their routine. You can help your child overcome their fear and build healthy habits for life.

Teething Development Process

Teething in babies is a standard developmental process that typically occurs at 6 months of age. In some cases, it can happen earlier than 3 months or later than 12 months. During this time, a child's first teeth, also called baby teeth or “deciduous teeth”, begin to erupt through the gums.

The lower front teeth (central incisors) typically erupt first, followed by the upper front teeth. By the age of 3, most children have all 20 baby teeth. Teething can be uncomfortable for babies. Common symptoms include excessive drooling, chewing, irritability, swollen or sore gums and mild crankiness or difficulty sleeping.

Some babies may experience a slight increase in body temperature when teething. Fever is not proportional to teething and should be checked by a doctor.

Parents can offer the teething baby a safe, cooled (not frozen) teething toy or a clean, damp cloth to chew on. Massaging the gums with a clean finger can also be soothing.

Over-the-counter painkillers such as infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen (if the child is old enough) can be used under the guidance of a pediatrician. Teething gels containing benzocaine, which is toxic, should not be used. Proper oral hygiene is also necessary during teething.

Parents can wipe the baby's gums with a soft cloth and start brushing with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste when the first tooth appears. Although teething can be a difficult time, it is only a temporary phase. With the right care and comfort measures, both parents and babies can get through it easily.

Pediatric Dentist Treatment Fees

Pedodontic treatment cost start from £30. It varies according to the treatment to be applied and the complexity of the treatment. In Andepol dental clinic in Antalya, basic services for children's dental health start from the following prices.

Prices may vary according to the treatment plan. You can contact our clinic for more detailed information.