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Pediatric Dentistry

Healthy Smiles

Pediatric dentistry (formerly Pedodontics/Paedodontics) primarily focuses on children from birth through adolescence. The American Dental Association (ADA), recognizes pediatric dentistry as a specialty, and therefore requires dentists to undertake two or three years of additional training after completing a general dentistry degree. At the end of this training, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry issues a unique diploma (Diplomate ABPD). Some pediatric dentists (pedodontists) opt to specialize in oral care for children with special needs; specifically children with autism, varying levels of mental retardation, or cerebral palsy. One of the most important components of pediatric dentistry is child psychology. Pediatric dentists are trained to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children, and always avoid threatening words like “drill,” “needle,” and “injection.” Dental phobias beginning in childhood often continue into adulthood, so it is of paramount importance that children have positive experiences and find their “dental home” as early as possible.
Pediatric dentists educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology; thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy. In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.
By continuously tracking growth and development, pediatric dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image.
Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay. In addition to providing check ups and dental cleanings, pediatric dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.
In some cases, pediatric dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.

What Does a Pediatric Dentist Do?

Pediatric dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to the child’s overall oral health and hygiene. They place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth. Other important functions include:
Tooth decay caused by frequent exposure of an infant’s teeth to sugary liquids (milk, formula, juice) — especially when a baby goes to bed with a bottle. This can lead to rapid enamel breakdown because sugars feed bacteria that create acid attacks on teeth.

Covers how to prevent cavities and keep teeth healthy, including:

  • Regular brushing and flossing
  • Balanced diet and limiting sugary snacks
  • Professional cleanings and fluoride treatments
  • Tips on pacifier and thumb-sucking habits
What to do if your child has a dental injury — e.g., toothaches, knocked-out teeth, or trauma. Immediate steps and when to call a dentist are discussed.
Why and when children may need dental x-rays to check for hidden decay, development, spacing issues, and other conditions.
Why and when children may need dental x-rays to check for hidden decay, development, spacing issues, and other conditions.
Discussion on detecting and addressing early bite problems to guide jaw and teeth development.
Information about the timing and order in which baby and adult teeth typically appear.
Recommends the first dental appointment by age 1 or within six months of the first tooth erupting — to start early prevention and detect issues.
How fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, and how dentists may use it to strengthen enamel.
Role of a well-balanced diet and limiting sugary foods/drinks in preventing cavities.
General guidance (often every 6 months for most children) unless the dentist advises otherwise.
Tips on brushing, flossing, professional care, diet, and sealants to reduce cavity risk.
Why custom mouth guards are recommended for children playing sports or at risk of dental injury.
How pacifiers and thumb sucking affect dental development and tips for weaning off these habits.
Appliances dentists may use for spacing, habit correction, or orthodontic guidance.
Caring for oral health even before the first tooth — cleaning gums, establishing habits early.
Sealants help protect molars’ grooves from bacteria and food particles.
When and how sedation might be used to help anxious or very young patients during dental procedures.
Guidance on transitioning off sippy cups and using them safely (e.g., water mostly to reduce cavity risk).
Risks of tobacco and oral piercings on dental development and health.
Explains how dentists treat deep decay or infection in a child’s tooth pulp (similar to a root canal for kids).
Which toothpaste to use at various ages (often non-fluoride before age 2 and pea-sized fluoride once age-appropriate).
Typical timeline for primary (baby) teeth eruption.
Baby teeth are crucial for chewing, speech development, and holding space for permanent teeth.
Focuses on doctors trained specifically in children’s dental care and behavior management.
Xylitol is a natural sugar substitute that can reduce harmful oral bacteria and help prevent cavities when used appropriately.

Frequently Asked questions