Pediatric Dentistry - Seattle Oral Care

If you have kids, you know that their oral health needs differ from adults. Children tend to grind their teeth more often than adults, which can lead to issues such as jaw joint pain. Specialists like pediatric dentists have a lot of experience working with children, which is why it’s important to find one if you have kids.

On this page, we explore the benefits of having your child see a pediatric dentist instead of a general adult dentist, as well as why Seattle Oral Care is the right choice for your child in Seattle.

What is a Pediatric Dentist?

A pediatric dentist is a specialist who treats children. They are trained and licensed to work with children of all ages and are familiar with their unique oral health needs.

They are trained to care for the teeth and gums of children of all ages. Their training, experience, and knowledge make them the best choice for your child’s oral health needs.

General dentists, on the other hand, are trained to treat all age groups, including children. Pediatric dentists are trained specifically to work with children, whereas general dentists treat a wider range of patients.

Why Have Your Child See a Pediatric Dentist?

Regular cleanings and check-ups

Regular cleanings and check-ups are essential to a child’s oral health. Pediatric dentists can provide your child with regular cleanings, sealants, and fluoride treatments. This will ensure that they keep their teeth healthy and avoid cavities.

Cavity Protection

Children are at a higher risk of developing cavities. This is because they have less developed oral health compared to adults. The best way to protect your kids against cavities is to have them see a pediatric dentist regularly.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can cause severe damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw bone. It can also lead to headaches and jaw joint pain. Bruxism is more common in children than in adults, especially during their growing years. A pediatric dentist can identify if your child has bruxism and suggest ways to prevent and treat it. 

Orthodontic Assessment

If your child needs orthodontic treatment, it’s best to see a pediatric dentist. They can determine if your child needs orthodontic treatment and help you understand the process better.

A Healthy Diet and Oral Hygiene

A pediatric dentist can help you with diet and oral hygiene recommendations for your child. They can also provide information on how to prevent cavities and teeth grinding.

FAQs

What is the ideal age for a child to initially visit the dentist?

The ideal age for a child to visit the dentist is typically when they are between one and two years old. At this age, your child’s teeth begin to fully form, and their mouths are developing rapidly.

What are the two most common dental diseases in children?

Orthodontic problems and tooth decay are the two most common dental diseases in children. One of the main reasons for tooth decay is poor oral hygiene.

Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to food particles building up between teeth, which eventually turn into tartar build-up and cavities. Additionally, too much sugar can promote tooth decay as well.

When should my child start using toothpaste?

The American Dental Association recommends that all children start using toothpaste at two and a half years old. The reason for this is that it’s important to prevent cavities in the first place, as these can be difficult to treat once they develop. With this in mind, it’s best to introduce toothpaste at a very young age.

This will allow your child to learn how to brush their teeth properly without having any negative side effects from using an inappropriate product. Over time, they will learn how to spit out the toothpaste and avoid swallowing it.

The Seattle Oral Care Difference

Our Patient First concept at Seattle Oral Care means that we listen to and understand your condition, educate you on other solutions, and treat your concerns for a happy and healthy you.

We also want to ensure that each customer has a positive experience throughout the process. We treat each customer like family and go out of our way to guarantee they are satisfied with the outcome. To improve your quality of life, we pay attention to the whole process, from the first visit to the care you get after treatment.

If you're ready to smile with confidence, give us a call now to set up an appointment!