Children's Dentistry in San Diego, CA
Children’s dentistry, also known as pediatric dentistry, involves the dental care of children from infancy to adolescence. It focuses on preventing and treating dental problems in children and ensuring the healthy development of their teeth and gums. Babies and young children frequently struggle to care for their teeth, and sometimes parents are frazzled and confused about the right methods. Even more often, children experience early dental problems like crooked teeth, tooth fractures, painful eruptions, and even gum disease and infections.
When these situations occur, you can seek out a skilled office like Scripps Poway Dental Care, which has experience handling children’s dentistry and can make even the youngest patient feel safe and comfortable during treatment.
What Does Children’s Dentistry Involve?
Children face many of the same problems experienced by adults, and treatment will vary. In general, most of the procedures done will be of the preventative variety, meaning they are meant to stop future problems from occurring.
Here are some of the services provided by Scripps Poway Dental Care dentist:
- Dental Examinations: Regular dental checkups are essential for children to identify and prevent any dental problems early on. During these exams we will perform a thorough examination of the child’s mouth, teeth, and gums.
- Cleaning and Fluoride Treatments: teeth are cleaned to remove any tartar, plaque, or stains that may have accumulated. We may also apply fluoride treatments to strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that helps build and strengthen the enamel of the teeth, so kids don’t get cavities, especially in the modern sugary world.
- Dental Fillings: If a child has a cavity, the dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill it with a dental filling material to restore its function and appearance.
- Dental Sealants: Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the molars to prevent cavities from forming in the deep grooves of the teeth.
- Orthodontic Evaluations: Children’s dentists can evaluate the alignment of the child’s teeth and jaws and recommend orthodontic treatment if necessary.
- Education: We will educate children and parents on proper oral hygiene practices, healthy eating habits, and other factors that can affect their dental health.
Children’s Dentistry at Scripps Poway Dental Care
Overall, children’s dentistry focuses on promoting good oral health habits from a young age and providing preventive and restorative dental care to ensure that children maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives.
As a parent or guardian, it’s crucial that you take children in your care to a dentist on a regular basis to keep their teeth healthy and strong. For more information, schedule an appointment with Scripps Poway Dental Care.
FAQS
Children are usually ready for their first dental visit around their first birthday or when the very first tooth appears. Early checkups help your child get comfortable in the dental chair and allow the team to spot small issues before they become bigger concerns.
Most children benefit from checkups every six months to monitor growth, cavities, and oral habits. Regular visits also help build familiarity, so they feel more relaxed during each appointment. If your child needs more frequent monitoring, the dentist will discuss that with you.
A typical exam includes a gentle evaluation of the teeth, gums, and bite. The dentist may take X-rays if needed and provide a cleaning to remove plaque. You’ll also get guidance on brushing, flossing, and healthy habits tailored to your child’s age and needs.
Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once the teeth touch, and limiting sugary snacks all help protect your child’s teeth. Regular dental checkups also play a big role in preventing decay. The dentist may recommend sealants or fluoride treatments for added protection.
It helps to use simple, reassuring language and avoid describing anything as painful or scary. Bringing a favourite toy or any comfort item can also reduce anxiety. Many children relax once they meet the team at Scripps Poway Dental Care and see how gentle the visit is.
Modern digital X-rays use very low radiation, and protective shields are always used during imaging. These X-rays help the dentist spot issues that aren’t clearly visible during a regular exam, such as early cavities or developmental concerns. They are only taken when necessary.
Most children naturally outgrow these habits between ages two and four. If the habit continues longer, it can affect tooth alignment or jaw development. Your dentist can offer gentle strategies to help your child stop if it becomes a concern.
