By Paula Cerqueira
Special to the Milford-Orange Times
A pediatric dentist is a dentist who has chosen and dedicated their dental career to the oral health of children, from infants to teens. A pediatric dentist has the education and experience to address and care for a child’s teeth, gums, mouth and growth through all the stages of childhood.
On average, children begin erupting teeth at six months. However, for some infants this process can start too early or too late. A thorough examination by a pediatric dentist will be needed.
Children will start to change teeth at average of 6 years old. Deciduous teeth, also known as baby teeth, start to fall out, and new permanent teeth will erupt in their place. It is necessary that the developing mouth be evaluated to ensure proper eruption, proper spacing and to ensure sound tooth structure.
In today’s world, early childhood caries (cavities or tooth breakdown) are more common than asthma or hay fever. Dental caries are considered an infectious disease. They are also linked with proper oral care and diet. Today’s average diet includes too much processed food, which can aggravate tooth decay.
A pediatric dentist has completed four years of dental school plus two to three additional years of residency training. They learn how to treat infants, children, teens, and special needs individuals. In addition, some pediatric dentists will become board-certified, which involves additional studying and passing a rigorous two-part exam.
A pediatric dentist provides oral health exams and preventive care like tooth cleanings, habit counseling, early assessment of crowding, and assessment of jaws to ensure they grow in harmony. They can treat cavities and defects. They can diagnose oral conditions related to systemic diseases, gum disease, bacterial and viral infections. A pediatric dentist can also care for dental emergencies.
A pediatric dentist learns different behavioral techniques to help treat children of all ages and needs. A pediatric dentist will assure the best possible care for your child.
Dr. Paula Cerqueira is a board-certified pediatric dentist and owner of Orange Children’s Dentistry, LLC at 518 Boston Post Rd. in Orange.