Children in Long Island, and everywhere else, should see the children’s dentist when they get their first tooth or when they reach their first birthday to ensure that the gums, teeth, and jaws are forming properly. Many times, children will see the same dentist until they are 18 years of age or when they are moved to the family dentist, so it is important to find the right dental office in Long Island.
How to Find Children’s Dentists
When you are looking for a pediatric dentist, you need to find out if the have training necessarily to be considered pediatric, which usually means they have had more schooling. You will also want to talk with family and friends to get recommendations.
You could also ask your pediatrician to recommend a good dentist as many doctors for kids have referrals for other needed medical staff.
Once you have a few options, it is important to call and talk with the pediatric dentist to learn more about them. Ask them what training they have and how many years of experience they have working with children of all ages. If you have a child with special needs, ensure that the dentist can handle those children.
Care Provided
A dental visit for a child is quite similar to a dental visit for an adult. A typical visit will include an oral exam and assessments for cavities. For young babies, thumb sucking, pacifiers and teeth grinding problems will be looked into and possible solutions will be given. If there is decay or defects in the teeth, repairs will be done.
Preventative care will also be given, including sealants, cleanings and fluoride treatments. Generally, adults do not receive fluoride treatments, but it is felt that children can stand to have the added fluoride to help build strong teeth.
Assessments will also be performed to check that teeth are developing normally and whether orthodontic work will be required to correct bite problems or straighten teeth.
Prevention of gum diseases will also be taught and performed. These types of diseases include gingivitis and periodontal disease. If these diseases are already there, management and treatment will be given to correct the problems.
If a child’s tooth is knocked out, displaced or fractured in Long Island, the children’s dentist can also help with these situations, as well.
If you are in need of a children’s dentist, then you want to choose the right one. Go online to learn more about Pediatric Dentistry of Suffolk County.
