Dental Distinction is a family dentist office near you in Chester Springs, PA. Jason Petkevis, DMD provides general dentistry treatments to children starting at age 3, once all of the primary teeth have erupted. We will see children at a younger age in emergencies or by special request.
Pediatric Dentist vs. Family Dentist
A pediatric dentist is a specialist who primarily treats children and adolescents. A family dentist sees patients of all ages and is one who can grow with a child into adulthood. Families in Chester Springs appreciate the convenience and flexibility of a family dentist and having the entire family treated by the same dentist.
About Pediatric Dentistry
The American Dental Association estimates that over 50% of first-graders and 80% of 17-year-olds have cavities. While there are many things parents can do to ensure the health of their children’s teeth, one of the best ways to prevent cavities and tooth decay in children is through regular visits to the dentist and routine dental cleanings.
Good oral health contributes to a child’s overall health, encourages positive self-image, and improves feelings of achievement. Dr. Petkevis and staff help parents and guardians by teaching proper pediatric dental care and answering common questions about thumb sucking, tooth decay, orthodontic treatment, and wisdom teeth removal.
Cavity Prevention in Children
Diligent oral hygiene maintenance is the strongest foundation for a healthy mouth. As parents, you are responsible for instilling positive oral health habits in your child from the beginning. Did you know that over half of children aged 5-9 have at least one cavity?
You can help prevent cavities from becoming a part of your child’s development by encouraging them to brush twice daily for two minutes and floss regularly. We take the time to show our young patients how to effectively brush and floss to maintain good oral health.
A Child’s First Visit to the Dentist
Routine pediatric dentistry visits will include:
- Teeth cleaning
- Fluoride treatment
- Diagnostic x-rays
- Periodontal screening (for gingivitis and gum disease)
- Dental caries (cavities) screening
- Examination of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and jaw position
Dental Care for Children in Chester Springs
- Dental Sealants – Dr. Petkevis uses dental sealants to prevent tooth decay, forming a barrier to protect the tooth surface. A dental sealant is a thin coating made from bio-compatible plastic. They can be placed in a single visit and offer long-lasting protection.
- Sports Mouth Guard – A custom sports mouth guard is an excellent way to protect your child’s teeth from injury during sports. The guard usually covers the upper teeth; however, if your child wears braces or another fixed dental appliance on his lower jaw, Dr. Petkevis may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth, too.
- Invisible Braces – Many teens who need orthodontic treatment prefer invisible braces. Dr. Petkevis offers ClearCorrect invisible braces for discreet, comfortable treatment.
Childhood Habits and How They Affect Oral Health
There are some common habits that children grow up doing that can affect their teeth and oral health. Some of these habits, like thumb sucking, pacifier use, and teeth grinding, are common but can lead to problems if they go on for too long. Understanding how these habits may impact your child’s teeth can help you take the proper steps to keep your child’s smile healthy.
Thumb Sucking
Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for many babies and young children. This action helps them feel comforted and secure. Most children stop on their own between the ages of two and four.
However, if thumb sucking continues past this age, it can cause changes in how the teeth grow. The pressure from sucking can push the front teeth forward, leading to misalignment or bite problems. Thumb sucking may also affect the roof of the mouth.
To help your child break the habit, we suggest you start by offering positive reinforcement. Offer them praise or small rewards, and provide other ways for your child to feel comforted, like a favorite toy or blanket.
Pacifier Use
Pacifiers can be helpful for soothing babies. However, just like thumb sucking, they can affect the development of a child’s teeth if used too long.
Long-term pacifier use may lead to problems like an open bite, where the front teeth don’t meet properly. Pacifiers can also change the shape of the mouth.
Our dental team usually suggests stopping pacifier use by age two to prevent these issues. As a parent, you can gradually reduce pacifier time, limit its use to bedtime, or replace it with other comforting methods.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Some children grind their teeth, especially at night. This is called bruxism. Teeth grinding may happen because of stress, misaligned teeth, or other factors. In many cases, children outgrow it without causing lasting damage.
However, if grinding continues, it can lead to worn-down teeth, jaw pain, or headaches. You may notice your child’s teeth looking flat or chipped or hear a grinding sound while they sleep.
If the grinding is severe, we may suggest that they wear a nightguard to protect the teeth. Reducing stress, keeping a regular bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine can also help.
Helping Kids Develop Healthy Habits
While these habits are common, they don’t have to cause long-term damage. By understanding their effects and taking steps to guide your child toward better habits, you can help ensure strong, healthy smiles. Regular dental visits are also important, as we will monitor changes and offer advice on the best ways to protect your child’s teeth.
Pediatric Dentistry FAQs
Pediatric dentistry ensures your child’s oral health stays on the right track. Learn more by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
What makes a pediatric dentist different from a family dentist?
A pediatric dentist trains specifically in oral health and techniques for children. After normal dental school, a pediatric dentist dedicates another 2-3 years of specialty training to the unique needs of children. They train for multiple age groups, including babies, toddlers, and adolescents.
If my child takes good care of their teeth, are dental sealants necessary?
While ‘baby teeth’ are only temporary, they play an important role in your child’s permanent teeth and oral health in general. That is why we put so much focus on protecting them from decay. Dental sealants are an easy and painless way to provide extra protection children need from tooth cavities.
When should my child get sealants?
Between the ages of 5 – 7, your child’s first set of molars will come in. We recommend putting sealants on them when all of them have come through. When their second set of molars comes between the ages of 11 – 14, we recommend putting sealants on those as well.
What are the benefits of getting a custom mouthguard for my child?
A custom mouthguard provides a lot more protection than a store-bought one. While they cost significantly more, having one made for your child could save you thousands of dollars in dental work. Kids get injured all the time while participating in sports. Providing them with the best protection possible can save them from painful injuries.
Can thumb-sucking harm my child’s teeth?
Yes. If this habit continues too long, it impacts the development of your child’s mouth. It can cause bite problems or crooked and cramped teeth. If your child continues this habit as the permanent teeth come in, they may require appliances so that the bite develops correctly. Most children stop this habit on their own.
If my child gets a cavity in a baby tooth, should it still be filled?
Absolutely. Primary teeth are very important to a child’s oral development, even if they’re temporary. They’re the placeholders that create space in your smile for the permanent teeth to come in. Proper care of baby teeth also helps teach your children the right way to take care of their oral health in the future. You should get a cavity filled in a baby tooth.
Schedule a dental visit for your entire family today. Call 610-904-9274 or request an appointment online today.