Pediatric dentistry

The importance of pediatric dentistry, starting with baby teeth

Pediatric dentistry is extremely important from the moment the first baby teeth appear. The role of baby teeth goes far beyond allowing the child to chew. They help develop proper speech and act as a placeholder to ensure that permanent teeth erupt in the correct position. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, it can cause crowding or abnormal growth, which can lead to serious orthodontic treatment later. Regular check-ups help monitor the development of the new teeth and detect any deviations in time. Early meetings with the dentist also ensure that the child gets used to the environment and does not view the treatments with fear. Thus, pediatric dentistry is not only about the condition of the teeth, but also about developing good oral care habits and maintaining long-term health.

Protecting the health of baby teeth also contributes to a child's proper nutrition, as proper chewing is the first step in digestion. In addition, beautiful, healthy teeth strengthen a child's self-confidence and contribute to their balanced development.

How are treatments for children carried out?

One of the most important features of pediatric dentistry is that it is completely tailored to the needs of the child. The visit to the clinic begins with a playful introduction, so the little ones can discover the tools and gradually get used to the new experience. The dentists approach the children with great patience and empathy, explaining every step and trying to create a good atmosphere. The presence of parents is often reassuring for the child, so we provide this opportunity as well.

During the treatments, we use modern, painless anesthesia methods so that children do not fear discomfort. Modern digital diagnostic tools allow for quick and accurate examinations, so that the necessary treatments can be started in a timely manner. This may include preventing tooth decay, filling or extracting baby teeth, and treating accidents and injuries. Pediatric dentistry is not only about healing, but also about making little ones love and consider visiting the dentist as natural.

Pediatric dentistry in the service of prevention – Furrow closure

Preventive treatments are given a special place in the field of pediatric dentistry, as they help to avoid problems later on. Sealing is one of the most effective methods for preventing tooth decay, during which the deep grooves of the chewing teeth are covered with a thin protective layer. This is a completely painless, non-drilling procedure, which is quick and safe, so children can easily undergo it. During the treatment, the tooth surface is first thoroughly cleaned, then prepared with a short enamel etching. Then, the special sealer material is applied to the tooth's grooves and hardened with a light curing lamp. The whole process takes a few minutes per tooth, and anesthesia is usually not required.

Groove sealing is most recommended for the first permanent molars, immediately after they erupt, usually at the age of 6–8. For the second molars, it is recommended to perform it at the age of 11–14, preferably within 6–12 months of the tooth erupting. If the child's teeth are particularly prone to decay or the grooves are unusually deep, the treatment may also be considered for baby teeth. In some cases, it can also be used for adults, especially if the structure of the chewing teeth puts them at high risk of decay.

The materials used include light-curing, composite-based sealants, which are durable and aesthetic, providing effective protection even in a thin layer. We also use glass ionomer-type materials, which release fluoride, thereby strengthening the enamel, and are particularly beneficial for younger children. After treatment, the child can eat and drink immediately, although sticky, highly chewy foods should be avoided for the first hour.

The durability of the sealant provides protection for several years, but it can wear out over time, so it is recommended to check it annually. It can be easily replaced or corrected if necessary, so that long-term protection of the teeth can be maintained. In addition to sealants, prevention also includes fluoride treatment, tartar removal, and habit control, which helps to break bad habits (such as pacifiers or thumb sucking).

First visit and the role of parents

The first meeting between a child and the dentist largely determines the future attitude towards treatments. That is why pediatric dentistry places special emphasis on ensuring that little ones get to know the dentist in a friendly, playful environment. Parents play an important role in how they prepare their child. It is recommended to speak positively about the visit, avoid fear-inducing expressions, and encourage the child to participate in the examination with confidence. It is better to use words such as clean, strong, and healthy teeth or nicely brushed teeth, as these reassure the child and help build trust.

There is also a lot we can do at home to help your child feel open and relaxed during a dental visit. It can be helpful to role-play the dental experience together: the child can be the dentist, and the parent or stuffed animals can be the patients. In this case, brushing teeth can be practiced in a fun, playful way using a mirror, toothbrush and toothpaste. It is important to avoid mentioning drills or other instruments, as these can cause fear. The key is for the child to be emotionally open and to view the upcoming visit to the pediatric dentist as a positive experience.

When arriving at the clinic, it also helps if there is some time to play or watch a story while waiting. These small touches help the little one relax, feel safe, and cooperate more easily during the examination. The support of parents remains the most important thing in developing daily oral care habits: brushing teeth together, setting a good example, and regular check-ups all help the child to go to the dentist confidently and without fear in the long term.

Pediatric dentistry at Dental Angels

At Dental Angels, pediatric dentistry receives special attention. We welcome children in a family-friendly environment, where every little detail serves a fear-free experience. Our experienced, patient dentists regularly work with little ones and know exactly how to create a calm, safe atmosphere. Thanks to modern diagnostic tools, we can quickly and accurately set up a treatment plan, for which we always use the most up-to-date methods.

Groove sealing is a routine treatment available in our office, which provides protection for chewing teeth for many years. In addition to the painless procedure, children often do not even notice that they have undergone treatment, yet they take a big step towards maintaining the health of their teeth. The presence of parents is ensured during every treatment, so the child can always count on their closeness and support. Our goal is to make pediatric dentistry not a fear, but a safety, care and positive experience for every family.

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