A pediatric dentist is a specialist dedicated to the oral health of infants, children, adolescents and patients with special health care needs. Pediatric dentists complete two or three years of additional specialized training (after the required four years of dental school), which includes study in child psychology, growth, and development. They are also trained and qualified to care for patients with medical, physical, or mental disabilities. Their specialization allows them to provide treatment for a wide variety of children's dental problems such as tooth decay and cavities, malocclusion and crooked teeth, and emergency care.

2. At what age should my child visit the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first visit to the dentist should occur by 12 months of age. This visit will enable our dentist to evaluate your child and introduce you to proper oral hygiene. Diet, fluoride, finger and pacifier habits and tooth eruption will be discussed to insure optimal dental health.

3. What guidelines will help children remain cavity free?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends:

• Brush with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day.
• Floss children's teeth once a day.
• Visit your pediatric or general dentist regularly.
• Get enough fluoride through drinking water, fluoride products and fluoride supplements, if necessary.
• Have sealants applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent back teeth or molars.
• Snack moderately-no more than twice a day.

4. Tips for helping children develop positive dental habits.

• Set a good example.
• Make good oral health a family effort.
• Show children that daily brushing and flossing, limited snacking and regular dental checkups are necessary for good oral health.
• Support your child when they are able to brush and floss on their own- assisting and performing spot checks as needed.

5. How important is a child's diet in the prevention of cavities?

Although a well-balanced diet is important in preventing cavities and to ensure good general health, cavities are not only the result of what children eat but also the frequency of meals. Frequent snacking without brushing leaves food on the teeth longer and increases the likelihood of a cavity developing. Additionally, frequent "sipping" on sugar-drinks (including juice and soda) in a baby bottle, "sippy" cup, or re-sealable bottle can cause widespread dental cavities.

6. What are dental sealants and who can benefit from them?

The chewing surface of children's teeth are the most susceptible to cavities and least benefited from fluorides. Sealants are adhesive coatings that are applied to the tops of teeth and can be very effective in preventing tooth decay. Current research has shown that 4 out of 5 cavities in children under age 15 develop on the biting surface of back molars. Molars are the most decayed teeth because plaque accumulates in the tiny grooves of the chewing surfaces. Sealants prevent the cavities that fluoride cannot effectively reach.

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