Pediatric dentistry focuses on providing treatments and services that help to keep your child's mouth healthy. Pediatric dentists offer common dental treatments, such as sealants, fluoride treatments, and space maintainers.
Popular treatments used in pediatric dentistry
Let us take a look at some of the more commonly used treatments in pediatric dentistry:
1. Dental sealants
Sealants are a type of preventative treatment that pediatric dentists often recommend. We usually apply sealants to the back teeth, also called molars. The sealant is a thin, plastic coating that helps to protect the tooth from decay.
2. Fluoride treatments
Fluoride treatments are also a popular preventive measure that pediatric dentists often recommend. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to protect teeth from decay. The fluoride treatment usually takes the form of a gel or foam applied to the teeth.
3. Space maintainers
Space maintainers are devices used to hold the space left by teeth that fall out prematurely. They are frequently used when a child has lost a tooth too early, such as due to an accident. The space maintainer helps to hold the space until the permanent tooth erupts.
4. Crowns
Crowns are also commonly used in pediatric dentistry. A crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire tooth. Crowns are usually made of porcelain, stainless steel, composites, or ceramic and can be used to rebuild a tooth that has been ravaged by decay.
5. Pulpotomy
A pulpotomy is a treatment used to save a tooth damaged by decay. In a pulpotomy, the pediatric dentist will remove the part of the tooth affected by decay and then fill the empty space with a special material.
6. Teeth cleaning
Teeth cleanings are also an essential part of pediatric dentistry. The pediatric dentist will remove plaque and tartar from the teeth during teeth cleaning. Plaque is a sticky film that can build up on the teeth and cause tooth decay. Tartar is a calcified form of plaque that can only be removed with professional teeth cleaning.
7. X-rays
X-rays are also often used in pediatric dentistry. X-rays can help the pediatric dentist detect teeth problems that are not visible to the naked eye. They can also help to determine the severity of a problem.
8. Fluoride varnish
Fluoride varnish is another type of fluoride treatment that is often used in pediatric dentistry. Fluoride varnish is a thin, clear coating that is applied to the teeth. It helps to shield teeth from decay and can also help to reduce the risk of cavities.
9. Educational services
Pediatric dentists also offer educational services to help parents and guardians to understand more about oral health. They can provide information on how to care for the teeth and gums, choose the right toothbrush, and floss properly. They can also provide information on healthy eating habits and the importance of good oral hygiene.
Make your child’s oral health a priority
Kids should see a pediatric dentist before their first birthday. Call or visit our Middletown clinic to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
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