Pediatric Dentistry

pediatric-dentistry-101
Smile Architects

What is pediatric dentistry

Pediatric dentistry, also known as pedodontics, is a specialized field of dentistry focused on the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence. Pediatric dentists are trained to care for the unique dental needs of children, including dental exams, preventive care (such as cleanings and fluoride treatments), diagnosis and treatment of dental issues (like cavities and gum disease), and guidance on proper oral hygiene practices. They create a comfortable and child-friendly environment to ensure positive dental experiences and promote lifelong oral health habits.

Types of Pediatric Dentistry

  1. Preventive Dentistry: Focuses on educating parents and children about proper oral hygiene, diet, and fluoride use to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
  2. Restorative Dentistry: Involves treatments like fillings, crowns, and root canals to repair damaged or decayed teeth in children.
  3. Orthodontics: Addresses the alignment and positioning of teeth and jaws through treatments like braces or aligners to ensure proper development.
  4. Emergency Dentistry: Provides immediate care for dental injuries or sudden pain, ensuring timely treatment to preserve dental health.
  5. Behavior Management: Techniques and strategies to help children feel comfortable and cooperative during dental visits, fostering positive dental experiences.

Cost of pediatric Dentistry

Cost of pediatric Dentistry

The cost of pediatric dentistry in Hyderabad varies based on the specific treatment required. Here are some general price ranges:

  1. Routine Check-ups and Cleanings: These can range from ₹500 to ₹1,500 per visit.
  2. Fluoride Treatments and Sealants: Fluoride treatments typically cost around ₹500 to ₹1,000, while sealants can be ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per tooth.
  3. Fillings and Extractions: Fillings for cavities can range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 per tooth, and extractions may cost between ₹1,500 to ₹5,000, depending on the complexity.
  4. Orthodontic Treatments: Braces or other orthodontic treatments can vary widely, typically starting at ₹20,000 and going up to ₹80,000 or more.

Pediatric Treatment process

  1. Initial Consultation:
  • The process begins with an initial consultation where the pediatric dentist reviews the child’s medical and dental history and conducts a thorough examination.
  1. Examination and Diagnosis:
  • The dentist examines the child’s teeth, gums, and mouth, often using X-rays to identify any underlying issues. The dentist discusses the findings with the parents and explains the recommended treatment plan.
  1. Preventive Care:
  • Cleaning: Professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride is applied to strengthen the enamel and prevent decay.
  • Sealants: Protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent cavities.
  1. Restorative Procedures:
  • Fillings: Decayed portions of the tooth are removed and filled with a suitable material.
  • Crowns: Custom-made caps are placed over damaged teeth to restore their shape and function.
  • Root Canal Therapy: Infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the tooth is sealed to prevent further issues.
  1. Orthodontic Evaluation:
  • The dentist may assess the alignment of the child’s teeth and jaws and recommend braces or other orthodontic appliances if necessary.
  1. Behavior Management:
  • Pediatric dentists use techniques to ensure children are comfortable and relaxed, such as positive reinforcement, distraction methods, and sometimes sedation for more extensive procedures.
  1. Education and Follow-Up:
  • Parents and children are educated on proper oral hygiene practices, diet, and habits to maintain dental health. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress and address any emerging issues.

FAQs of Pediatric Treatment

It’s recommended that your child visits a dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears.

Children should visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings.

Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. Dentists use low levels of radiation and protective measures to ensure safety.

 Encourage good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, limiting sugary snacks, and visiting the dentist regularly.

 Dental sealant is a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent cavities. It is recommended for children to help protect their teeth.

 In case of a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth or severe toothache, contact your dentist immediately for advice and treatment.

You can help by preparing your child for the visit, reading books about dental visits, and choosing a pediatric dentist who specializes in treating children.

Children can start using fluoride toothpaste as soon as they have their first tooth. Use a small, rice-sized amount for children under three and a pea-sized amount for children aged three to six.

Common dental issues include cavities, gum disease, thumb-sucking, and dental injuries. Regular dental visits can help prevent and treat these issues.

 Baby teeth are crucial for proper chewing, speech development, and guiding the permanent teeth into place. Keeping them healthy is important for your child’s overall oral health.

Doctors Testimonial: