Dentistry for Children and Teens
Specialized dental care for young patients, from infanthood and on. Often requiring special skills and techniques.
Pediatric dentistry is one of nine recognized dental specialties in Canada. Pediatric dentists are focused on providing complete dental care for children of all ages, as well as people with special care needs.
Pediatric Dentists in Canada
Pediatric dentists are recognized as specialists by the Royal College of Dentists of Canada after completing advanced training.
One of the main challenges of caring for the oral health of children is managing anxiety and completing procedures on restless children. Pediatric dentists train in special oral care techniques for children, including behavioural management, sedation dentistry, and general anesthesia.
Pediatric dentists in Canada must also have a broad knowledge of treatments for dental diseases, dysfunctions, and abnormalities, including pulp therapy, oro-facial trauma, and restorative dentistry.
Pediatric Dentistry FAQ
At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?
Most pediatric dentists recommend bringing children in for their first appointments by the time they are 12 months old, or within several months of the front baby teeth erupting. There are two reasons for this: First, dentists can provide preventative care for teeth, monitoring them as they erupt. Second, early visits to the dentist can familiarize a child with going to the dentist, making future visits feel less intimidating and putting children at ease.
How is dentistry for children different than dentistry for adults?
Children have distinct dental and oral health care needs. A pediatric dentist focuses on potential issues specific to children during their growth and development. This can include recommended feeding practices or how thumb sucking and pacifier sucking can affect the eruption of the teeth.
Pediatric dentistry treatments for children may also differ from typical adult treatments. Much of pediatric dentistry is focused on providing preventative care as the baby teeth begin to fall out and the adult teeth begin to erupt. Treatments such as dental sealants are used more often to prevent tooth decay in children. Traditional orthodontics (braces) are also used more commonly for children.
Techniques such as sedation may also be used to ensure children feel calm and can sit still while undergoing procedures. However, many dentists will focus on behavioural management techniques first, using sedation only in necessary instances.
What should I expect at the first appointment?
A first visit to the dentist should be fun, gentle, and comfortable. The main goal of a first visit is to familiarize your child with going to the dentist and to check on the condition of the teeth and soft tissues. You and your child may also receive instructions for caring for your child’s teeth at home.
Pediatric Dentists in Canada
If you’re searching for a pediatric dental practice near you, search the 123Dentist network of Canadian dentists. Our dentists work hard to make every dental appointment a positive experience for kids.