What is Pedodontics?

Pedodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on monitoring children's dental health from birth to adolescence. Regular oral and dental health checks in children are important to ensure that their teeth continue to develop correctly and healthily. Neglecting dental health in children can lead to orthodontic problems that occur in later ages.

Why Are Baby Teeth Important?

The health of baby teeth is very important. Caries that are not treated properly can negatively affect the development of permanent teeth. The main function of baby teeth is to provide the right space for future permanent teeth and to direct permanent teeth to the correct position, as well as chewing. This function also supports the healthy development of children's jaw bones and muscles. In addition, tooth development can also affect children's speech habits. The loss of baby teeth that have completed their development and the development of permanent teeth begin at the age of 6-7 and end at around 10-13. This stage usually does not include wisdom teeth, which develop towards adulthood or even later.

Preventive Dentistry Practices

Preventive practices primarily aim to raise awareness among children and parents about regular tooth brushing and eating habits. Instilling in children the habit of brushing their teeth at least twice a day and avoiding excessive sugar consumption is a good starting point.

The most common among preventive practices are fissure sealants and fluoride applications. Fissure sealants help prevent bacteria from penetrating by closing the fissures (grooves) on the chewing surface of the teeth that are prone to decay. Fluoride applications, which are widely used for protection against decay, aim to strengthen tooth enamel.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, called baby bottle caries, is a common problem in early childhood. It is commonly seen in young children as a result of sugary foods given to the child in a baby bottle during sleep.

Space Retainer Practices

Protecting baby teeth, treating decay and preserving the place of the lost teeth in case of early loss of baby teeth are extremely important for the permanent teeth to be positioned correctly in the mouth. In such cases, the place of the prematurely lost milk teeth is protected with fixed or removable space maintainers.

When Should You Go to the Pediatric Dentist?

It is recommended that children be taken to the dentist twice a year starting at the age of one. The development of malocclusions in children can occur as early as the age of 2. Being aware of the factors that threaten dental and gum health at an early age can be beneficial in order to avoid dental treatment in adulthood.