Pediatric dentistry services help treat the oral health care needs of children from infancy through their teenage years, including those with special health needs. Children need specialized dental care to ensure their teeth develop properly. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child receive the first visit with a dentist by their first birthday. This will allow us to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and detect any potential problems early — when they are most easily treated.

Types of Pediatric Dentistry Treatments

From infancy to adolescence, your child’s oral care needs will change and evolve over time. Routine exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. However, there are still a number of specialized pediatric dental services that children need as they grow older. Here are some safe, effective dental treatments for your child, including:

Emergency Visits

Falls and other accidents can happen at any time, especially when you’re dealing with small children. If your child is injured or in pain due to an oral health emergency, it’s important to seek treatment immediately. The sooner your child is seen by a dentist, the better their chances of a quick recovery.

Sealants

Many children need sealants on their teeth, particularly on their molars and premolars. A sealant is a coating applied to the chewing surface of a tooth that fills in the deep grooves where cavity-causing bacteria hide out. The sealant prevents cavities by keeping food and plaque out of the grooves. Many dentists recommend applying sealants as soon as the child’s permanent teeth come in - usually around age six or eight. However, adults can also benefit from sealants to help prevent decay. 

To get a sealant, the dentist first cleans the teeth. Then the teeth are dried, and the sealant is painted on the chewing surface, where it bonds to the teeth and hardens. The dentist may put a “bandage” over the sealant while it hardens. This protects the tooth from saliva during the hardening process. Dental sealants are safe and effective for children, teens, and adults. They are easily applied by a trained dental hygienist during a regular routine appointment.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatment can help strengthen tooth enamel that has been weakened by acids, sugars, and bacteria in the mouth. It consists of a highly concentrated solution of fluoride that is painted or dripped onto the teeth. The liquid will remain on the teeth for several minutes before being rinsed away. Children may need to undergo several appointments for fluoride treatments before seeing results. Parents can encourage their children to brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste each day to maintain oral health.

If your child needs any pediatric dentistry treatment, visit the dentist in Topeka, KS Frank N. Johnson, D.D.S., P.A. at 1244 SW Oakley Ave, Topeka, KS 66604, or call (785) 357-7706. We will be happy to discuss any questions you may have!