Pediatric Dentistry in Kingston, Jamaica

Pediatric dentistry refers to the practice of dentistry for children. These dentists are specifically trained to meet the needs of infants, children, teenagers, and children with special needs. While general dentists can treat patients of all ages, pediatric dentists undergo 2-3 years of additional training. This allows them to provide dental care for children from birth through adolescence.

Pediatric dentists can do some general things at your child’s appointment. First, they can help your child develop good oral hygiene habits. Regular visits to the dentist at Southdale Dental Kingston, Jamaica, West Indies, can help your child feel more comfortable at the dentist’s office and encourage them to practice proper hygiene at home.

Mouthguards for Children

Mouth guards are dental appliances that can protect your child’s teeth from grinding and clenching. Many children grind their teeth at night. Typically, the grinding and clenching will wear down the enamel of the teeth. Mouth guards are custom-fitted to your child’s teeth. They can be made of either plastic or hard acrylic material.

When Should My Child First Visit the Dentist?

Our dentist recommends that your child’s first dental visit be between six and 12 months of age. This visit is even more important than your baby’s first trip to his or her pediatrician. This visit allows your child’s dentist to evaluate your child’s oral health and talk with you about any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s oral health.

Fluoride

Fluoride is an element that naturally occurs in water and soil. Fluoride is also added to many kinds of toothpaste, mouthwashes, and dental treatments. Fluoride helps fight cavities by strengthening the entire tooth. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria build up in the mouth and attack the enamel. Fluoride helps prevent bacteria from sticking to teeth, helping to prevent cavities.

Fluoride strengthens the enamel by binding to hydroxyapatite crystals in the tooth. This helps to harden the enamel and make it more resistant to tooth decay. In addition to strengthening teeth, fluoride can also reverse early tooth decay.

Sealing Out Tooth Decay

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth. This coating is made of chemicals and BPA-free plastics that are safe for the teeth. A tooth sealant is a plastic material used to protect teeth from tooth decay. It is typically recommended for children, teenagers, and adults prone to tooth decay. The sealants are painted onto the teeth, where they harden to create a protective barrier over the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Sealants can protect the teeth for many years but must be checked for wear and chipping during regular dental visits. Typically, sealants can last for several years before needing to be replaced.

Your child’s mouth is constantly changing, and so are their oral health care needs. Your child can grow with strong, healthy teeth by starting good dental habits early. For the best dental care, visit Southdale Dental, Shop 8, E. Southdale Plaza, 3 South Ave, Kingston 10, Jamaica, West Indies 00010, or call (876) 929-3312.