İçerik Haritası
Pedodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the monitoring of dental health in children from birth to adolescence. Regular oral and dental health check-ups for children are important to ensure that teeth develop correctly and in a healthy manner.
Neglecting dental health in children can lead to orthodontic problems that may arise in later years.
Why Are Baby Teeth Important?
The health of baby teeth is crucial. Untreated cavities in baby teeth can negatively affect the development of permanent teeth. The primary function of baby teeth is not only to chew but also to provide the correct space for future permanent teeth and guide them into the right position. This function also supports the healthy development of jawbones and muscles in children. Additionally, dental development can influence children’s speech habits. The loss of fully developed baby teeth and the development of permanent teeth typically begin around 6-7 years old and finish around 10-13 years old. This stage generally doesn’t include the development of wisdom teeth, which typically come in toward adulthood or even later.”
Preventive Dentistry Practices
Preventive practices primarily aim to raise awareness about regular tooth brushing and dietary habits for both children and parents. Instilling the habit of brushing teeth at least twice a day for children and avoiding excessive sugar consumption is a good starting point.
Among the most common preventive practices are fissure sealants and fluoride applications. Fissure sealants help prevent bacteria from infiltrating the fissures (grooves) on the chewing surfaces of teeth, which are prone to decay, by sealing them. Fluoride application, commonly used for cavity protection, aims to strengthen tooth enamel.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, commonly referred to as “baby bottle tooth decay,” is a common issue during early childhood. It frequently occurs in young children due to sugary foods given to them in a bottle during sleep.
Space Maintainers
Preserving primary (baby) teeth, treating cavities, and maintaining the space left by lost baby teeth are crucial for ensuring the proper alignment of permanent teeth in the mouth. In cases like these, lost baby teeth are preserved using fixed or removable space maintainers.
When Should You Take Your Child to the Dentist?
It is recommended to take children to the dentist twice a year starting from the age of one. The development of malocclusions (misaligned teeth or jaws) in children can become apparent as early as age 2. Recognizing factors that threaten dental and gum health at an early age can be beneficial in preventing the need for dental treatment in adulthood
What Is Tartar?
Tartar is the accumulation of mineralized plaque on teeth. Tartar forms when plaque bacteria mineralize over time. Plaque deposits that cannot be removed through brushing and flossing gradually harden into a tough layer on the teeth.
Tartar can lead to oral health issues. It can cause gum inflammation (gingivitis) and gum disease (periodontitis). Additionally, it can contribute to aesthetic and health problems such as teeth staining, bad breath, cavity formation, and gum recession.