There are a lot of questions about pediatric dentistry (children’s dentistry) like what it is and how it affects children. We compiled a list of common questions around the practice and situations that involve your child’s oral hygiene. We cover the common questions such as, what age is safe to use toothpaste, when should you start taking your child to the dentist, and what can pediatric dentists offer you?

What qualifies a Pediatric Dentist?

Pediatric Dentists are required to take a minimum of four years of study in dental school just like a general dentist, however, there is also a mandatory two-year residency under a practicing pediatric dentist to gain the clinical experience and skills in dealing with young patients. This involves real experience with with patients and not limited to shadowing the current practitioner. Children can sometimes be…difficult patients, as one can imagine. Pediatric dentists are trained to make the experience a comfortable and safe one, no matter the child.

The Benefits Of Using Pediatric Dentistry

There are an array of benefits you and your child will have from using a pediatric dentist:

• Habit counseling to help your kids. This kind of knowledge of child psychology helps eliminate bad habits that can impact dental hygiene, such as thumb sucking.
• Preventative dental assessments. Early identification of required corrections such as teeth straightening is important in preventing issues that could lead to costly visits to the orthodontist later on.
• Sedation Dentistry. If your child has problems dealing going for their check ups, the child can safely be put to sleep while the dentist completes the work that needs to be done. There are multiple forms of sedation dentistry and how it is delivered to the patient, here is a guide to the different types of methods.

Little child during brushing his teeth

Do’s And Don’ts of Child Teeth Care

These are things that should be taken into consideration when caring for your child’s oral hygiene at home:

• When should my child start using toothpaste? Age 3. Something to keep in mind is that children tend to excessively swallow toothpaste which can lead to fluorosis. Fluorosis is where teeth can get damaged by hypomineralization of tooth enamel.
• How much should my child brush their teeth? Twice a day, for life! This includes things like brushing their tongue as well!
• What should I use to brush my child’s teeth? Use a soft bristled toothbrush and only water.
• What do I do about flossing? When your child’s teeth start forming tightly together, usually around the ages of 2 to 6, start building the habit of flossing twice a day. It is vital to make sure that your child is brushing their teeth right as well.

All of these are great ways to get a head start on ensuring your child grows up to have a healthy and bright smile. For more information, feel free to reach out to us so that we may address any questions about our pediatric dental services in Edmonton.