Pediatric dentistry is a branch of dental sciences which as the name suggests, deals with children. Thus all teeth and gum related requirements of children are met with by pediatric dentistry. For becoming a pediatric dentist, firstly, one needs to do the dental degree program. After this, one needs to do a specialization in the post-graduate program in pediatric dentistry.
What work comes in the purview of pediatric dentistry?
All teeth and gum-related issues of children come in the category of pediatric dentistry. Take irregular or misaligned teeth for one. Though this falls into the work category of orthodontics, it is necessary to understand that it can be taken on in some measure by pediatric dentists as well. Pediatric dentists can guide the children, and their parents about the use of orthodontics and all that braces, aligners and retainers can do for teeth correction. Also, it is the duty of pediatric dentists to inform and educate children and their parents about the importance of oral health and hygiene. For example, the importance of brushing teeth twice daily and for at least two minutes each time should be discussed with them. Also, the children should be made aware of the correct technique to brush teeth and not do a haphazard job of it. Along with this, they should become aware of dental flossing and its advantages as well. This too should be done with correct technique and on a regular basis at least once in a day. The pediatric dentist should talk to the children about the importance of at least rinsing the mouth properly if they have eaten sweets or sticky food items. That too much of consumption of these, especially without adequate clean-ship exercise, will result in dental caries and cavities should be clarified to the children and their parents. Children should be told about the importance of eating fruits and veggies which are rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, and minerals. These are good for their teeth and their bones.
Pediatric dentistry also includes talking to children and parents about the importance of maintaining milk teeth properly. At times we do not look after our milk teeth thinking they are soon going to fall off and permanent ones come in their place. However, this is not the right attitude to take. Good habits for maintaining oral hygiene are formed in the best possible manner during childhood years. Also, the base region where the teeth erupt from should remain healthy. This will happen if there is no cavity formation and the dental hygiene of a child is looked after properly. Pediatric dentistry is one branch which involves disbursing of all such education and information to not just the children but also to their parents so that they can make sure that such aspects are always brought in front of the children properly and correctly to ensure teeth and gums longevity.
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