Paediatric Dentistry

The Australian Dental Association of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s first dental visit should occur by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Early visits help establish a dental home for the child and set the foundation for preventive oral health care.

Paediatric dentistry is crucial because early childhood dental care sets the stage for lifelong oral health. It focuses on the unique dental needs of children, including prevention and treatment of decay, guidance on dental growth and development, and education on good oral hygiene practices. Early detection and treatment of dental issues can prevent more complex problems later on.

A child’s first dental visit typically includes a thorough examination of the teeth, gums, jaw, and oral tissues to assess growth and development. The visit may also include a gentle cleaning and fluoride application, depending on the child’s age and cooperation. The dentist will provide guidance on oral hygiene practices and discuss any concerns with the parents.

To prepare your child for their first dental visit, talk about the dentist positively and explain that the dentist will look at and clean their teeth. Avoid using words that might cause fear. Reading books or watching videos about first dental visits can also be helpful. Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is usually well-rested and cooperative.

Common dental problems in children include tooth decay (cavities), dental caries, early childhood caries (baby bottle tooth decay), gum disease (gingivitis), and dental emergencies like knocked-out or broken teeth. Orthodontic issues, such as misaligned teeth or bite problems, are also common in children.

Children should have dental check-ups every six months, though some children may need more frequent visits due to increased risk of tooth decay, unusual growth patterns, or poor oral hygiene. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and treatment of dental issues.

Baby bottle tooth decay, or early childhood caries, is a form of tooth decay that affects babies and toddlers. It’s often caused by frequent and prolonged exposure to drinks containing sugar, such as milk, formula, or fruit juice, especially when given at bedtime. Prevention includes avoiding sugary drinks in bottles, cleaning the child’s teeth and gums after feedings, and encouraging drinking from a cup by their first birthday.

To help your child develop good oral hygiene habits, start by setting a good example with your own oral hygiene. Brush and floss with your child, make oral care fun and routine, and use age-appropriate toothbrushes and toothpaste. Regular dental visits for cleanings and check-ups also reinforce the importance of oral hygiene.

Begin using toothpaste for your child as soon as the first tooth appears. For children under 3 years, use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice). For children 3-6 years old, use a pea-sized amount. Always supervise brushing to ensure they use the correct amount and don’t swallow toothpaste.

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars) to prevent decay. They are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers who are at higher risk of cavities. Sealants are typically recommended once the permanent molars have erupted and can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in the sealed teeth.

Managing dental anxiety in children involves creating a welcoming and calming environment. Paediatric dentists are trained to use kid-friendly language, explain procedures in an understandable and non-threatening way, and employ distraction techniques. Sedation options, like nitrous oxide (laughing gas), may be used for particularly anxious children. Encouraging positive dental experiences from a young age and regular visits can help alleviate anxiety over time.

If your child has a toothache, first clean the area around the sore tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth with warm salt water or use dental floss to dislodge any trapped food or debris. If the pain persists, consult a paediatric dentist. Avoid placing aspirin on the tooth or gums, and use children’s pain relief medicine if necessary, following the dosage guidelines.

Prolonged thumb-sucking and pacifier use can lead to dental problems, such as misaligned teeth and bite issues, especially if the habit continues beyond age 3-4. It’s important to gently discourage these habits as children grow older to avoid long-term dental issues. Consultation with a paediatric dentist for advice and intervention strategies can be beneficial.

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a child’s oral health. Sugary foods and drinks can increase the risk of tooth decay. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products helps maintain healthy teeth and gums. It’s also essential to limit snacking between meals to reduce the frequency of acid attacks on the teeth.

For babies, use a soft, damp cloth or a small, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the gums and any erupted teeth. Once your baby has teeth, brush them twice a day with a smear of fluoride toothpaste. Avoid putting babies to bed with a bottle to prevent baby bottle tooth decay.

Children should start flossing when two teeth touch each other, typically around age 2-3. Parents should assist with flossing until the child develops the dexterity to do it themselves, usually around age 6-7. Regular flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.

Signs your child may need braces include crowded or misplaced teeth, difficulty in chewing or biting, mouth breathing, thumb-sucking, and jaw shifting or noises. An orthodontic evaluation, typically recommended by age 7, can determine if braces are needed and the best time to start treatment.

If a child’s permanent tooth is knocked out, find the tooth and, if dirty, rinse it in milk (or water if milk isn’t available) without scrubbing. Try to reinsert it in the socket and hold it there, or store the tooth in milk. Seek emergency dental care immediately. For a baby tooth, do not try to reinsert it, but consult a paediatric dentist as soon as possible.

Fluoride strengthens the enamel of children’s teeth, making them more resistant to decay. It can even help repair early decay. Fluoride can be obtained from fluoridated water, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professional fluoride treatments at a dental office.

Sports, especially contact sports, can pose a risk to children’s dental health. Wearing a mouthguard can help protect against dental injuries. Custom-fitted mouthguards from a dentist offer the best protection and comfort.