Pediatric Dentistry in Meridian, ID

As children grow, their teeth and jaws also grow and develop. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating young patients and ensure that everything is developing as it should. During their visits, pediatric dentists perform routine cleanings and take X-rays as necessary to monitor growth and development. They can also provide preventative advice to help patients avoid tooth decay and other common dental issues.

In addition to regular dental care at Dental Care for Kids, our pediatric dentists can also help treat a variety of issues that many young patients have, including thumb sucking, pacifier use, poor oral hygiene habits, teething pain, dental trauma, and more. Having a dentist specializing in pediatric dentistry can benefit young patients and help them maintain good oral health as they grow into adulthood.

What Are the Most Common Treatments for Children?

Most children are cavity free when they leave the dentist, so there is no need for fillings or other restorative treatments. Instead, many pediatric dentists focus on preventive dental care to promote good oral hygiene habits that last a lifetime. This includes cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants. Children are also taught about proper brushing and flossing techniques to prevent cavities from forming in the first place.

During the appointment, the pediatric dentist will also check your child’s teeth for signs of decay to identify any problems early on so they can be treated. This will help avoid additional future procedures, such as root canal therapy or crowns.

Other common treatments that are performed on children include tooth extractions and mouthguards. Extractions are sometimes necessary if a tooth is severely decayed and cannot be saved with fillings or crowns. Mouthguards protect the teeth and jaw during sports and other activities where the face may be hit. These custom-fit appliances help protect the teeth and prevent them from becoming damaged. 

The Benefits of Pediatric Dentistry

Specialized Expertise

Pediatric dentists have specialized training and experience in treating the unique dental needs of children. Dr. Whitt and Dr. Coletti spent two extra years after dental school to better understand the complexities of dental development in children, including the eruption of primary (baby) teeth and the transition to permanent teeth. Their expertise allows them to provide appropriate and effective dental care for young patients.

Prevention and Early Intervention

Pediatric dentists focus on preventive care to maintain optimal oral health in children. They educate parents and children on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and dieting. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help identify potential dental issues early on, allowing for timely intervention and preventing more severe problems.

Education and Guidance

Pediatric dentists educate parents and caregivers on proper oral hygiene practices, nutrition, and habits that affect a child's oral health. They provide guidance on topics such as teething, thumb sucking, pacifier use, and the importance of a balanced diet for oral health. This empowers parents to make informed decisions and establish healthy oral care habits for their children.

The primary goal of pediatric dentistry is to promote good oral health habits and prevent dental problems in children. For the best dental care, visit Dental Care for Kids at 3235 N Towerbridge Way, Suite #200, Meridian, ID 83646, or call (208) 888-7711.