PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY (PEDODONTICS)
Pediatric Dentistry (Pedodontics):
The foundation of a healthy smile is laid in childhood.
Children's dental health is not limited to oral problems; it directly affects their overall growth and development, nutrition, speech, and self-confidence. Prodenta Dental Clinic in Ataşehir aims to create a positive dental experience from an early age to prevent the development of dental phobia in children.
When should the first dental check-up be done?
A dental visit should be scheduled as soon as the baby's first milk tooth erupts, at the latest by the 12th month. During this first examination, early/late tooth eruption, dental and soft tissue anomalies are assessed, precautions are taken against bottle caries, and parents are guided on oral care.
Why are baby teeth so important?
Beneath each baby tooth lies a permanent tooth bud; the health of the baby tooth directly affects the position and health of the permanent tooth.
Baby teeth act as 'space maintainers' for permanent teeth.
It is essential for both eating and chewing functions.
It supports correct pronunciation and language development.
It has a positive effect on the child's self-confidence and psychology.
Schedule for the Eruption and Shedding of Baby Teeth
Primary teeth typically erupt between 6 months and 3 years of age. This set of 20 teeth develops in the following order: incisors, first molars, canines, and finally molars. While individual variations are considered normal, any significant deviations should be evaluated.
How and when should children's teeth be brushed?
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Brushing routines should begin as soon as the first baby tooth erupts. Fluoride-free toothpaste is used until approximately 3 years of age; between 3 and 6 years old, a pea-sized amount of child-specific fluoride toothpaste is preferred. Until elementary school age, brushing should be done twice a day under parental supervision: after breakfast and before bedtime.
WHAT IS FLUORIDE TREATMENT?
Fluoride gels are applied to pediatric patients by a dentist. Through this application, fluoride ions are incorporated into the tooth structure, making the tooth more resistant to decay. Topical application of fluoride is a more effective method than taking systemic fluoride pills. Children at high risk of caries should have fluoride gels applied 2-4 times a year.
What is fissure sealant?
The deep, recessed chewing surfaces of the back teeth can remain susceptible to decay even with fluoride treatment. Fissure sealants prevent bacterial adhesion by covering these surfaces with a thin layer of filling, significantly reducing the formation of cavities.
Dental Treatment Under General Anesthesia
In children with intense fear, physical resistance, communication difficulties, or mental/physical disabilities, as well as in very young children with numerous cavities or abscesses, all treatments can be safely completed under general anesthesia. The child will not remember the procedure upon waking; this method prevents the development of dental phobia.
For a safe and fun dental experience for your child in Ataşehir, consult Prodenta Dental Clinic.