What is Pedodontics?

Pedodontics, also known as pediatric dentistry, deals with the oral and dental health of children aged 0-13. From infancy to adolescence, there may be issues with baby teeth, permanent teeth, and jaw development. The diagnosis and treatment of these problems are performed by pedodontics specialists.

A pediatric dentist not only provides treatment but also implements preventive practices. This specialist aims to help children develop healthy oral habits.

A pediatric dentist, or pedodontist, closely monitors the process starting from the eruption of a child’s first teeth. From the appearance of the first tooth to the settlement of permanent teeth, they observe the child’s oral structure and take early precautions if any problems arise. Pedodontists provide the following services:

• Monitor the healthy development of baby teeth and space-maintaining permanent teeth.
• Intervene early in tooth decay and other dental problems.
• Use child-friendly techniques during treatments such as fillings or extractions.
• Prevent jaw development issues caused by early tooth loss using space maintainers.
• Treat dental trauma caused by accidents like falls or impacts.
• Take protective measures against early childhood caries such as baby bottle tooth decay.
• Provide orthodontic referrals for anomalies affecting tooth structure and alignment.
• Teach children oral hygiene and dental care habits.

Children’s oral and dental health is a cornerstone of their overall well-being. Dental problems are not limited to cavities alone. These issues can also affect speech, nutrition, and self-confidence. Especially, cavities in baby teeth can cause structural damage and misalignment that may affect the eruption direction of permanent teeth.

It should be remembered that healthy baby teeth are a sign of healthy permanent teeth to come. Moreover, regular visits to a pediatric dentist are necessary to ensure the healthy development of both baby and permanent teeth in children.

A pedodontist completes dental school and then undertakes a 3-4 year specialized training program in pedodontics. During this period, they acquire both theoretical and practical knowledge related to the physical, psychological, and social development of children. Many universities in Ankara offer pedodontics education, training future pediatric dental specialists.

Pedodontists must be able to communicate effectively with children, help them feel comfortable in the dental setting, and reduce their fears. In this respect, they provide not only medical but also psychological support.

Many parents do not feel the need to take their child to the dentist until a tooth decays. However, this approach is incorrect. It is recommended to visit the pediatric dentist from the eruption of the first tooth (usually around the 6th month). The first examination is important both for the general check of the oral structure and for education on oral and dental care.

In the following stages, regular check-ups should be performed throughout childhood (ages 6-13). This helps prevent cavities and monitor the development of the teeth. Especially early problems like baby bottle tooth decay can be resolved before they turn into major issues.

Pedodontics, or pediatric dentistry, includes both therapeutic and preventive approaches. Here are the most commonly used methods:

1. Preventive Applications

• Fluoride treatments: Strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavity formation.

• Fissure sealants: Thin coatings applied especially to the chewing surfaces of molars to protect against decay.

• Tooth brushing education: Teaching children to develop regular cleaning habits using age-appropriate toothbrushes and toothpaste.

• Nutritional counseling: Recommendations such as avoiding sugary and sticky foods to reduce the risk of cavities.

2. Therapeutic Applications

• Fillings and root canal treatments: Cavities in baby teeth are treated since these teeth need to remain in the mouth for a long time.

• Tooth extraction: When necessary, extractions are performed with special techniques to avoid frightening the child.

• Space maintainers: Appliances that preserve the space left by early lost baby teeth until permanent teeth erupt.

• Dental trauma treatment: Treatment of fractures or loosened teeth caused by sports injuries or falls.

As A Life Health Group, we are by your side for the health of your children with a widespread and specialized service network throughout Ankara. At our Ankara Hospital, Kuzey Ankara Hospital, and Altındağ Hospital pedodontics clinics, we monitor the dental development of children. We offer age-specific solutions for a healthy oral structure.

Our expert pediatric dental team provides a child-friendly treatment process with modern technologies. This process is safe and comfortable.

Choosing a children’s dentist requires more than just checking diplomas. The following factors are also important:

• Strong communication skills with children.
• A child-friendly clinical environment.
• Use of up-to-date and hygienic techniques.
• Clear communication with families to explain the process.
• Avoidance of unnecessary procedures; recommending only truly needed treatments.