Pediatric Dentistry is a branch of clinical dentistry that focuses on the prevention and management of soft and hard tissue diseases in the oral cavity of children and adolescents up to the age of 18. Teeth begin to erupt at around 7 months and complete their development by age 2. At this point, a child has 20 primary teeth, known as the deciduous or mixed dentition. However, these timelines can vary for each individual. Around age 6, the first permanent molars start to emerge in both the upper and lower jaws. The tooth replacement process typically completes by age 13.
Primary teeth differ in histological structure from permanent teeth. Their dentinal tubules are wider and more permeable, and the enamel prisms are less densely packed, which makes pathological processes in primary teeth progress rapidly. All primary teeth have a root and canal system that undergoes physiological resorption as the permanent tooth germ erupts. This process occurs gradually.
What Does Pediatric Dentistry Focus On?
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the prevention, prophylaxis, and sanitation of the oral cavity. During childhood, both carious and non-carious diseases, as well as pulpitis and periodontitis, can occur. The treatment of these conditions differs from that of permanent teeth. The materials used in pediatric dentistry also differ and are diverse, ranging from chemically polymerizing glass ionomer cements to light-cured glass ionomer cements. The materials used for root canal fillings are typically calcium-based sealers.
Anesthesia is an essential part of dentistry and is equally important in pediatric dentistry. Various types of anesthetics are used, and nitrous oxide sedation has become quite popular, especially for children with a strong fear of dental procedures. In cases where the child is uncooperative and has severe anxiety, general anesthesia may be considered as an option, especially if nitrous oxide is contraindicated.
It is recommended to visit the dentist every 6 months, regardless of whether the child has tooth pain. Regular consultations help prevent various diseases, as the oral cavity is not just about teeth; it is the first link in the digestive system and is closely connected to the entire body.