Pediatric Dentistry Specialist

What is pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a branch of oral health care dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental concerns in children. As pediatric dental specialists, the team at Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics have extensive experience caring for infants, toddlers, children, adolescents, and teenagers.

What is included in pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry includes a variety of preventive and restorative dental treatments, such as:

Teeth cleanings

A teeth cleaning is a preventive treatment that removes plaque, a sticky type of bacteria, from your child’s teeth and gums. Plaque clings to the teeth and releases toxins that eat away at their protective tooth enamel. It creates tiny holes, called cavities. Baby teeth, which have thinner enamel than permanent teeth, are especially vulnerable to cavities.

Dental exams

Dental exams and teeth cleanings typically occur in the same visit. During a dental exam, the team visually assesses your child’s teeth by checking for signs of damage or decay. They may also take X-rays to monitor your child’s tooth development and bone growth. Dental exams allow the team to spot early orthodontic concerns, like overcrowding, as well.

Dental sealants

Dental sealants are protective coatings the team can apply to the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth. These tooth-colored coatings help seal out bacteria to prevent cavities. They’re particularly helpful for vulnerable teeth in danger of decay.

Fillings

If your child does have a cavity, the team can place a filling. Dental fillings are treatments for cavities. During filling treatment, the team removes the decayed portion of a tooth and rebuilds its shape and size with either metal or composite (tooth-colored) materials.

How often does my child need to see a pediatric dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends taking your child to see the dentist at least once every six months to maintain good oral health. The team at Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics also encourages you to contact the office if you have questions regarding pediatric dental appliances, thumb-sucking, or prevention education.

To learn more about pediatric dentistry, call Greece Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics or schedule an appointment online today.