Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health from early childhood through adolescence. Proper care of primary teeth is essential, as damage to them can directly affect the development and health of the permanent teeth.

Importance of early prevention and a positive attitude

Establishing good oral hygiene habits and attending regular dental check-ups lays the foundation for good dental health in the future. Early visits to a pediatric dentist help children develop a positive attitude toward dental procedures and allow potential problems to be identified in a timely manner, before they lead to more serious complications.

Early childhood caries – causes and prevention

Between the ages of 1 and 3, many children develop what is known as early childhood caries. It is characterized by rapid progression shortly after tooth eruption, often affects multiple teeth at once, and most commonly affects the upper front teeth, which are less effectively protected by saliva.

Factors contributing to the development of early childhood caries

The main cause of enamel damage is prolonged exposure of the teeth to sugar-containing liquids. Falling asleep with a bottle containing sweetened beverages or juices allows carbohydrates to break down into acids that damage the tooth structure overnight, when protective saliva flow decreases.

Preventive measures at home

• Encourage the child to drink liquids from a cup rather than a bottle as early as possible.
• Avoid giving a bottle at bedtime with anything other than plain water.
• Consume sugary foods and juices at longer intervals to avoid prolonged exposure to their acidic effects.

Treatment procedures for children

When dental caries or advanced complications occur, specialized dental treatments are provided according to the child’s age and stage of dental development.

Treatment of pulpitis / periodontitis in a primary tooth

As the carious process progresses deeper, inflammation of the pulp or the tissues surrounding the roots of the primary tooth may develop. Timely treatment helps control the infection, relieve pain, and preserve the primary tooth in the jaw until its natural replacement by the permanent tooth.

Extraction of a primary tooth

When a primary tooth is severely damaged and cannot be preserved through treatment, a controlled extraction (removal) is performed to prevent infection of the underlying permanent tooth germ.

Composite resin filling for a permanent tooth

In children and adolescents with erupted permanent teeth, dental caries is treated by placing a composite resin filling. It restores the tooth’s anatomy, function, and aesthetics, providing long-lasting protection.