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At Tooth Suite Family Dentistry, we address oral health at every stage of life, and we welcome patients of all ages. We are proud to offer Children’s Dentistry services tailored to children and their specific needs, from birth all the way to adolescence.
Start your child on the right path to a lifetime of good oral health!
Pediatric dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to a child’s overall oral health and hygiene. They place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of baby teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth. Pediatric dentists are trained to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children.
Pediatric dentistry (formerly Pedodontics/Paedodontics) primarily focuses on children from birth through adolescence. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA), recognizes pediatric dentistry as a specialty and therefore requires dentists to undertake two or three years of additional training after completing a general dentistry degree. At the end of this training, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry issues a unique diploma (Diplomate ABPD). Some pediatric dentists (Pedodontist) opt to specialize in oral care for children with special needs, specifically children with autism, varying levels of developmental disability, or cerebral palsy.
One of the most important components of children’s dentistry is child psychology. Pediatric dentists are trained to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children, and always avoid threatening words like “drill,” “needle,” and “injection.” Dental phobias beginning in childhood often continue into adulthood, so it is of paramount importance that children have positive experiences and find their “dental home” as early as possible.
What Does a Pediatric Dentist Do?
Pediatric dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to the child’s overall oral health and hygiene. They place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth.
Other important functions of a pediatric dentist include:
- Education – Pediatric dentists educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology; thus, emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy. In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.
- Monitoring growth – By continuously tracking growth and development, pediatric dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image.
- Prevention – Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay. In addition to providing checkups and dental cleanings, pediatric dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.
- Intervention – In some cases, pediatric dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.
Early Dental Visits Equal a Lifetime of Dental Health and Wellness!
As parents ourselves, we understand the unique needs and concerns that children have when it comes to dental visits. We believe that visits to the dentist should be an enjoyable experience, and we do our best to create a friendly and comfortable environment. By encouraging proper dental care and techniques in a warm and caring environment, our younger patients have an enjoyable time at the office and are eager to continue future dental visits. At Tooth Suite Family Dentistry, we like to introduce our youngest patients to our practice with a gentle cleaning and check-up, also known as a “Happy Visit.” Happy Visits are complimentary for all children under the age of 2. This is an excellent way to introduce your child to our dental clinic environment and encourage and support early dental care and maintenance.
Our family-friendly general dentists and entire dental team are here to provide a comfortable and nurturing environment for kids that encourages and educates children about the importance of oral hygiene now and throughout their lifetime.
Should your child require the specialized care of a Pedodontist, the team at Tooth Suite Family Dentistry would be please to set up a referral appointment.
Experience our Happy Visit!
If you have questions or concerns about pediatric dentistry,
Call Tooth Suite Family Dentistry at (780) 875-4312
to schedule your Happy Visit today!
Tooth Suite Family Dentistry has been proudly serving
Lloydminster for over 20 Years!
Disclaimer
Dr. Marianne Stelmaschuk is a Lloydminster General Dentist. She is not a specialist in Cosmetic or Family Dentistry. Cosmetic and Family Dentistry are not specialties recognized by the Alberta Dental Association & College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA). She provides Cosmetic and Family Dental procedures such as Porcelain Veneers, Dental Crowns, Invisalign, and Teeth Whitening as part of her General Dentistry license. As a Lloydminster Family Dentist, she provides General Dental procedures for all ages within the family. Dr. Prabhjot Singh is a licensed Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon and can offer Oral Maxillofacial specialty services as part of his license.