Paediatric Dentistry


	General I Sedation I Extractions I Cosmetic I Paediatric I Oral Hygiene I Periodontics I Endodontics

	Paediatric Dentistry

	A child's first teeth are very important to their health. The teeth are, of course, required to chew food. The primary teeth also maintain space for the permanent teeth, developing underneath them in the jaws

	Fear of the dentist is learned from experiences or from what they hear from others. Make it sound like a routine item, and allow your child to get familiar with the dental clinic.

	Visit the dentist early
	It is recommended that your child see a dentist by his or her first birthday. Your dentist may advise waiting longer but will probably want to see the child before all his teeth have come in.

	Encourage brushing
	Wipe your child's gums with a wet cloth, even before first teeth appear to remove any food and bacteria. After the appearance of teeth, use a soft toothbrush and warm water. At around the age of three let your child brush his / her own teeth under supervision, but remember to use only a small amount of toothpaste. By the age of 8 it should have become a routine. Try to keep it enjoyable, by letting them choose flavoured toothpaste and a colourful toothbrush.

	Protect teeth
	To preserve your child's oral heath, try and ensure they have a balanced diet. Please remember that Calcium is essential for healthy teeth and gums, and discourage sugary or starchy snacks. When your child's first permanent molars appear (around the age of 6), consider protecting them with dental sealants. Sealants are the most effective method in preventing back teeth decay, by creating a barrier against food and the decay causing bacteria

	Sedation for Children
	On arrival at the clinic, the sedationist will place local anaesthetic “magic” cream on your hands. In the treatment room, the child is distracted whilst the sedationist administers sedation drugs. Parents / guardians will be asked to hold the other hand to comfort the child. When the drugs take effect, the child is sedated and will not remember anything that happens. At this stage, parents / guardians will be asked to leave before the treatment commences. Local anaesthetic ensures that there is no pain. Parents / guardians will be called through to the recovery room when treatment is complete.