Pediatric Dentistry (Pedodontics) – Pediatric Dentist in Turkey

Important Steps for Healthy Smiles
Pediatric Dentist – Pediatric Dentist in Turkey
Pediatric dentistry is a specialty focused on protecting oral and dental health from infancy through adolescence. This process includes crucial stages such as caring for baby teeth, ensuring the healthy eruption of permanent teeth, and monitoring orthodontic development. Tuzla, one of Istanbul’s developing districts, hosts Melsadent, a provider of quality services in this field.

Scope of Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry covers the following areas:

Monitoring and Care of Baby Teeth
Baby teeth are vital for proper chewing, speech development, and aesthetics. They usually begin to erupt around 6 months and complete by age 3. Neglecting baby teeth may cause chewing difficulties, speech delays, and crooked permanent teeth.

Preventive Dentistry
Pedodontists apply preventive methods such as fluoride treatments and fissure sealants to protect children from cavities. These treatments increase the resistance of teeth against decay.

Cavity and Root Canal Treatments
Baby teeth can also decay like permanent teeth. Deep cavities may damage the pulp (tooth nerve), requiring root canal therapy.

Space Maintainers and Orthodontic Guidance
In case of early loss of baby teeth, space maintainers are used to prevent closure of the gap. Monitoring jaw and tooth development helps predict future orthodontic problems.

Traumatic Dental Injuries
Children may experience tooth fractures or loss due to falls or accidents. Pedodontists manage these emergencies and perform restorations or replacements if needed.

The Importance of Psychological Approach in Pedodontics

Many children fear the dentist. Therefore, pediatric dentists receive special training and develop communication techniques suited to children’s psychology:

Behavior guidance techniques (tell-show-do, positive reinforcement)

No procedures at the first visit: Helps children get comfortable with the environment.

Painless treatment methods: Use of local anesthesia and sedation when necessary.

Educating families: Teaching parents about at-home care.

When Should the First Dental Exam Be?

Experts recommend the first dental visit at the eruption of the first tooth or by the child’s first birthday at the latest. Early visits are important for:

– Preventing cavities
– Guidance about pacifier/bottle use
– Establishing toothbrushing habits
– Evaluating nutrition habits

Recommendations for Families for Oral and Dental Health

Toothbrushing habit: Brush twice daily starting with the first tooth.

🍬 Limit sugary foods, especially before bedtime.

👶 Pacifier and bottle use: Should be stopped after age 2.

🦷 Regular dental check-ups: Every 6 months.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Be a role model: Family members should set examples for children.

Modern Treatment Approaches

With advancing technology, modern methods are increasingly used in pediatric dentistry:

– Laser-assisted cavity treatment
– Digital X-rays and intraoral scanners
– Orthodontic treatment with clear aligners
– Zirconium crown applications (esthetic restorations)

When to See a Pediatric Dentist?

You should consult a pedodontist if your child has:

– Permanent teeth erupting in the wrong place
– Discoloration or spots on teeth
– Gum swelling or bleeding
– Prolonged sucking habits
– Tooth fracture or trauma

Main Services Provided in Pediatric Dentistry

Baby Tooth Care and Treatment: Preventive and therapeutic care to protect baby teeth from decay.

Root Canal Treatment: Treatment applied when pulp tissue is damaged due to decay.

Orthodontic Treatments: Clear aligners, fixed orthodontics, and space maintainers to ensure proper tooth alignment.

Dental Trauma Management: Treatment and follow-up of injuries due to dental trauma.

Preventive Applications: Fluoride and fissure sealant applications to prevent cavities.

Sedation and General Anesthesia: Relaxation methods used during treatment for highly anxious children.

Tips to Help Children Overcome Dental Fear

Early Introduction: Meeting the dentist at an early age can help prevent fear.

Positive Communication: Use positive and understanding language about dental treatment.

Play and Education: Use games and educational materials to engage children in oral health.

Familiarization Sessions: Organize practice visits to get children comfortable with dental appointments.