A general dentist may find it challenging to manage the emotional and physical needs of very young patients. Children require a specialized approach to oral care that goes beyond the services adults receive. This need for expertise in the dental health of a growing individual led to a distinct dental specialization for children. Many parents seek out a professional whose entire practice is devoted to treating infants, children, and teenagers.
Identifying the Children’s Dental Specialist
The professional dedicated to the oral health of young patients is called a Pediatric Dentist. This designation is the modern term for the specialty, which was historically sometimes referred to as a Pedodontist. Pediatric dentists are trained to care for the dental needs of individuals from infancy through the teenage years, including those with special healthcare needs who may be beyond 18 years of age.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) sets the standards for this specialization in the US. A pediatric dentist ensures that a child’s teeth, gums, and mouth are cared for throughout childhood, from the first baby tooth to the full set of permanent teeth. This specialist handles the rapid growth and developmental changes that occur in a child’s mouth.
Specialized Education and Certification
Becoming a pediatric dentist requires advanced education and training beyond general dental school. The process begins with completing the standard four years of dental school, where graduates earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. After this initial training, the dentist must complete an additional two to three years of focused, full-time residency training in pediatric dentistry.
The residency provides instruction on subjects like child psychology, behavior management techniques, and physical growth and development. The training also covers hospital dentistry and the specific dental needs of children with medical, physical, or mental disabilities. Upon successful completion, the specialist may pursue Board Certification through the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), achieving the highest level of recognition, known as Diplomate status.
Unique Focus of Pediatric Dental Care
The practice of pediatric dentistry centers on addressing the specific needs of developing dentition and managing the emotional landscape of young patients. Preventive care is a primary focus, including applying dental sealants to protect permanent molars and providing tailored fluoride treatments. Pediatric dentists also offer guidance on nutrition and habits like thumb sucking or pacifier use, which can impact oral development.
These specialists manage the common dental trauma that occurs in active children, such as fractured or knocked-out teeth, stabilizing the issue and attempting to save the tooth whenever possible. They also perform early assessment for developmental issues like malocclusion (a bad bite) and may provide treatment like space maintainers to guide the eruption of permanent teeth. A primary difference is the use of non-pharmacological behavior techniques to build trust and cooperation.
The “Tell-Show-Do” technique is a cornerstone of this approach: the dentist explains the procedure in simple language, demonstrates it, and then performs the procedure. Pediatric dentists also utilize positive reinforcement and distraction techniques, such as interactive tools or video screens, to make the experience less intimidating. This child-centered approach helps alleviate dental anxiety and fosters a positive association with dental care for a lifetime.