Pediatric Dentistry FAQ
Benefits of Pediatric Dentistry
Read answers to frequently asked questions about pediatric dentists and learn how scheduling a visit to our caring and dedicated team can make a difference in the health of your child! For assistance, please call us at Florissant Pediatric Dental Office Phone Number 314-830-9663 in Florissant.
Why A Pediatric Dentist?
What Is A Pediatric Dentist?
What Dental Problems Could My Child Have?
Why Are Baby Teeth So Important?
What Should I Tell My Child About Their First Dental Visit?
What About Preventative Care?
What About Sterilization?
Why A Pediatric Dentist?
Has your child ever begged you not to leave the dentist? Impossible you say? Not at our office. It could be our gentle touch and special way with kids. Our pediatric specialists and staff love children and are specially trained to put them at ease. We teach your children the proper way to take care of their teeth and just as important, they learn that going to the dentist can be fun.
What Is A Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists are specialists, they are NOT general dentists that just like to see kids. Pediatric dentists have to complete four years in dental school, followed by 2-3 additional years completing a pediatric dental residency program. Dr. Wakefield was actually the chief resident during her residency program at Howard University. Later she became Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry and has even become a Fellow of the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
In the same way that pediatricians are trained to meet a child’s medical needs, our pediatric dental specialists are uniquely qualified to protect your child’s oral health using the most advanced techniques, and all in our delightfully friendly, open treatment area. They learn how to deal with the behavioral aspects of children, how to make them feel comfortable, and to make the experience pleasant. They also are trained and qualified to treat special needs patients.
Where Your Child Comes First!
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What Dental Problems Could My Child Have?
Some dental problems begin very early in life. One concern is early childhood tooth decay, a serious condition caused by a child staying on the bottle (or breast) too long. Another problem is gum disease. About 40 percent of children two to three years old have at least mild inflammation of gum tissues. Oral habits (such as digit sucking) should also be checked. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chances of preventing problems. Strong, healthy teeth help your child chew food easily, speak clearly, and feel good about his or her appearance.
Why Are Baby Teeth So Important?
Primary teeth are important because they help with proper chewing and eating, help in speech development, and add to an attractive appearance. A child who can chew easily, speak clearly, and smile confidently is a happier child. Healthy primary teeth allow normal development of the jaw bones and muscles, save space for the permanent teeth, and guide them into place. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, permanent teeth may come in crooked. Decayed baby teeth can cause pain, abscesses, infections, and can spread to the permanent teeth. Also, your child’s general health can be affected if diseased baby teeth aren’t treated. Remember, some primary molars are not replaced until age 10-14, so they must last for years.
What Should I Tell My Child About Their First Dental Visit?
We are asked this question many times. If you are nervous about the trip, then the less you say the better. You cannot hide your anxiety from a child (they have radar for these things). Dr. Wakefield wrote a children’s book, called “My Dentist Appointment”; it’s available in the office and online. It walks a child through their first dental visit. Have fun going through it with your child. Your child’s reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you.
What About Preventative Care?
Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand-in-hand. At our office, we are most concerned with all aspects of preventive care. We use the latest in sealant technology to protect your child’s teeth. Sealants are space-age plastics that are bonded to the chewing surfaces of decay-prone back teeth. This is just one of the ways we will set the foundation for your child’s lifetime of good oral health.
What About Sterilization?
Your health and peace of mind are always our primary concern; therefore, we use state-of-the-art sterilization procedures. After each patient’s visit, the treatment area is thoroughly disinfected. We ultrasonically clean and heat-sterilize all non-disposable instruments. Our staff wears gloves, masks, and eye-wear during the procedure Your child will be given a pair of sunglasses to wear as well. Please feel free to ask us for information on the measures we take to ensure the safety of you and your children or a tour of our sterilization area: Florissant Pediatric Dental Office Phone Number 314-830-9663.