Clermont Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry

Why should a parent have a Pediatric Dentist treat their child?

A pediatric dentist, or pedodontist is a dentist who has undergone two to three years of additional training (after the required four years of dental school) to prepare them for treating a wide variety of children's dental problems. Pediatric dentists are also trained and qualified to care for patients with medical, physical or mental disabilities. This training allows them to have a better understanding of a growing child's dental needs. The pedodontist's job is to make a child's dental experiences enjoyable and to promote life long good oral hygiene habits at an early age.

When should my child first see a dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that the first visit to the pediatric dentist occur within 6 months following their first tooth eruption, but no later than 1 year of age.

How often should my child visit the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Some children need more frequent dental visits because of increased risk of tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene. Your pediatric dentist will let you know the best appointment schedule for your child.

How should I prepare my child for their visits?

We know that you want the very best for your child and to make their dental visits pleasant ones. That is our goal, too. You can start by having your child "meet" Dr. Julie on our web site. Show them our child friendly office and tell them they are very lucky because they will get to play with us. Don't tell them what we are going to do, as you may say the wrong thing. We have terms that we use here that a grown up dentist doesn't use. We tell the kids what we are going to do and what it will feel like in terms that they understand.

Why fill a baby tooth? Won't it eventually just fall out anyway?

Children need their teeth as much as adults do to chew and smile. If the teeth are allowed to become decayed, the child will suffer from pain, possible infection, and an inability to eat properly which leads to poor nutrition. Decayed teeth can also affect a child's social life and lead to teasing at school and play due to discoloration of the teeth and bad breath. Finally, if baby teeth are removed due to decay before the adult teeth arrive, shifting of the teeth will occur due to premature tooth loss which may lead to serious crowding once permanent teeth erupt.

When should I expect x-rays to be taken on my child?

X-rays are taken for most children at age 3. We follow AAPD guidelines for dental x-rays, which are an important and necessary part of our comprehensive care for your child. We will evaluate your child's readiness and behavior at each and every visit. We will take check up x-rays as indicated; most children need bitewing x-rays annually, however, some need them more frequently. Bitewing x-rays are used to diagnose cavities which can form between the teeth. Once your child has natually lost a baby tooth, or permanent teeth begin to erupt, we will take a panoramic x-ray. This is an x-ray that evaluates their growth and development. To avoid unnecessary radiation, the panoramic x-ray should not be done in children with only baby teeth present (under age 6) unless there has been trauma to the mouth or jaw.

Can I come into the treatment room with my child?

We have found that children do much better when they are in the treatment area without a parent. It is extremely important that we establish communication directly with the child. This, oftentimes, cannot be accomplished with a parent present. If, at any time, during the child's treatment we feel that the presence of a parent is indicated, we will ask them back. Sometimes, if a child is nervous, a parent may be asked to walk their child back and separate from them in the treatment area once they are settled. Treating your child in the safest environment is our ultimate goal. Our staff is trained extensively in treating children of all ages in a very compassionate and efficient manner. Often we are the "last hope" for some children who have seen many dentists without success.

Can I have my child's teeth bleached?

Bleaching is usually not indicated in children. Some children, however, have extremely discolored teeth that can contribute to a negative self image. In these children, bleaching may be indicated after a thorough examination by Dr. Russo. This is usually done once all the permanent teeth have erupted and no baby teeth are present. Bleaching can be obtained from the fabrication of a bleaching tray and home treatments, or use of an over the counter bleaching agent.

What is Nitrous Oxide? Is it safe to use on children?

When administered in a dental environment, Nitrous Oxide is actually a combination of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. When inhaled it has a calming effect on the patient and allows the patient to enjoy a more relaxed state which allows him/her to respond more favorably to dental care. During the administration of nitrous oxide, your child will remain fully awake, alert and able to respond to commands. Once the procedure is complete, and the desired calming is no longer needed, the nitrous oxide is eliminated from your child's system by breathing oxygen for a few moments.

What is "conscious sedation"?

This type of sedation induces an altered state of consciousness that minimizes pain and discomfort through the use of a medication taken orally or nasally. Patients are awake and able to communicate throughout the procedure. A brief period of amnesia may erase any memory of the procedure, which is why it is used in pediatric dentistry. This type of procedure requires that the patient has not had anything to eat or drink prior to the appointment, so it needs to be planned for ahead of time.

Do you have a question which is not answered here?

Please email Dr. Julie M. Russo at drjulie@clermontpediatricdentistry.com and she will get back to you!