Pediatric Dentist in Chesapeake, VA

A pediatric dentist focuses on the oral needs of young children and teenagers. They have the qualifications and expertise to care for a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth throughout the various stages of childhood. 

Toddlers begin to get their baby teeth during the first six months of life. They start to lose their primary teeth when they are six or seven years of age, which are finally replaced by a secondary set of permanent teeth. If the children are not given proper dental care in their earlier years, they could face possible oral decay and disease well into their adult life. Dental problems can cause a lifetime of pain and complications. 

Who Should See a Pediatric Dentist?

All children and teenagers, including those with physical or mental disabilities, should be given proper dental care throughout childhood. Oral care should begin when a child gets their first tooth and continues regularly throughout their growing up years. 

Regular pediatric dental care provides the best way to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health conditions. Pediatric dental care, in general, includes routine dental cleaning and exam once every six months or as recommended by your pediatric dentist. The amount of dental care your child needs depends on their exact dental problems, such as the quantity of plaque and calculus buildup, decay rate, and vulnerability to gum disease.

What Kinds of Treatments Do Pediatric Dentists Provide?

Pediatric dentists offer complete oral health care services that include the following:

• Infant oral health exams, including analyzing any risk for caries in the child and mother. Childhood dental caries are a common problem in children.
• Protective dental care, including cleaning and fluoride treatments
• Nutrition and diet recommendations
• Counseling for harmful habits such as pacifier use and thumb sucking in young children.
• Orthodontic treatments for children of the middle age group to straighten their teeth. A pediatric dentist will conduct an early assessment and provide treatment for the teeth straightening and correcting an improper bite.
•  Repair of tooth cavities or defects
• Comprehensive diagnosis of dental conditions linked with congenital heart defects, diabetes, asthma, hay fever, and attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.
• Gum diseases and conditions management. These conditions include ulcers and pediatric periodontal disease.
• Immediate care for dental injuries such as displaced, fractured, or knocked-out teeth.
• Educating parents about good oral hygiene practices and oral disease prevention.
• If the need arises, a pediatric dentist will work closely with other dental specialists to ensure the best care.

Call us at Alencar Family Dentistry or Schedule an Online Appointment to know more about our pediatric dentist.