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Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentists specialize in ensuring your children’s oral health
Pediatric dentistry is a specialty recognized by the American Dental Association, and requires dentists to earn a pediatric dentistry degree through two or three years of additional training after completing their general dentistry degree. Pediatric dentists specialize in managing and treating the oral health issues of children from birth to adolescence.
Child psychology is a crucial aspect of pediatric dentistry, as specialists are trained to foster a fun, friendly and social atmosphere for their patients, while avoiding scary-sounding words like “drill,” “needle” and “shot.” Dental phobias that begin in childhood often extend into adulthood, so it is important that children have positive dental experiences.
Some pediatric dentists specialize in caring for children with special needs, like autism, developmental disorders or cerebral palsy. Dr Terri will evaluate your child’s dental needs to determine if he or she needs to see a Pediatric Specialist.
Pediatric dentists guide children’s oral development
Pediatric dentists like Dr. Terri place particular emphasis on oral health maintenance and the care of deciduous teeth, or baby teeth. This care is instrumental in facilitating healthy chewing habits, proper speaking ability and the healthy emergence of permanent teeth. Dr. Terri also helps Geneva, NY patients and their families with:
- Prevention: In addition to checkups and cleanings, pediatric dentists also apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, and give advice on thumb- and pacifier-sucking habits.
- Intervention: Pediatric dentists provide oral treatments when needed for injuries, malocclusion (bad bite) and bruxing (grinding of teeth). Depending on your child’s oral condition, a nighttime mouth guard or space maintainers may be needed, or in some extreme cases, reconstructive surgery might be necessary.
- Growth monitoring: Pediatric dentists are able to predict dental issues and intervene before they get worse, with the help of developmental monitoring. Working toward corrective treatment at an earlier age can help maintain your children’s self esteem and a positive self image.
- Education: Using models, computers and child-friendly vocabulary, pediatric dentists teach children the importance of strong and healthy teeth. They also help parents ensure a balanced home hygiene routine that emphasizes healthy eating, along with disease and trauma prevention.