Information on Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentists are dentists that specialize in all dental treatment of children from infancy to adulthood. These dentists not only need to know dentistry, but they also need to be able to handle some orthodontics, be able to administer conscious sedation and deal with children with special needs. They must also know details of pediatric medicine and pediatric anesthesiology. This broad range of knowledge sets pediatric dentists apart from their general dentistry counterparts.
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Features
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Pediatric dentistry is specialty dentistry. This means that pediatric dentists have to undergo advanced training for their specialized title. Pediatric dentists have to spend two years in residency focusing solely on pediatric dentistry. This is an additional requirement after they graduate from dental school.
Benefits
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Because pediatric dentists focus solely on treating children, they can handle children's behavior and fears better than non-pediatric dentists. They can also handle special needs patients and those with disabilities. Pediatric dentists also use conscious sedation or other types of anesthesia in order to keep children safe and calm while the dentist performs certain dental procedures. This differs greatly from most general dentistry, where procedures don't warrant the use of any sedation medication. Pediatric dentists also help parents by advising them on the best way to keep their children's teeth and gums healthy.
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Accreditation
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The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is the major accreditation and membership society of pediatric dentists. Dentists who are members of the AAPD strive to improve the dental health of adolescents, children and infants.
Considerations
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The most important part of dentist appointments with a child is that the child is comfortable with the dentist. Since every child is different, as is every pediatric dentist, the dentist that one child loves may not be right for another child. If a child is not comfortable with a particular dentist, find a new pediatric dentist. Children who like their dentist are more likely to want to go and want to do what the dentist suggests, leading to better oral health overall.
Warning
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Pediatric dentists are familiar with anesthesiology, but they are not anesthesiologists. With major procedures that require general anesthesia or other non-conscious sedation, make sure there is an anesthesiologist present. Discuss any sedating medications and the possible risks and warning signs with the pediatric dentist prior to the child's procedure. If a pediatric dentist recommends a procedure or medication that does not seem right, seek a second opinion.
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