Pediatric Dentistry
What is pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and care of the youngest members of the family. Dental education and prevention are crucial from the time of birth through adolescence, ensuring that our little ones grow up with good dental habits and excellent oral health.
Dental Education and Oral Health
There are three significant changes in the mouth that occur during the early stages of life until adulthood: the eruption of baby teeth, the shedding of these teeth, and the subsequent emergence of permanent teeth.
It is essential to specifically care for each of these three changes. At Vila Dental Clinic, we address this specific care through our Vila Kids service, which covers ages from 0 to 12 years.
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY BY AGE
1Infants from 0 to 2 years:
During this initial stage, the first change occurs with the eruption of baby teeth. This process can be uncomfortable and painful for the baby.
As the first teeth come in, the baby may produce more saliva, bite objects, or put their hands and fingers in their mouth. Special attention to hygiene is required to prevent the possible entry of bacteria through the mouth.
With the emergence of the first tooth, it is recommended to have the first dental visit to monitor tooth eruption and prevent early cavities known as "baby bottle cavities." During these early visits, parents are advised on home dental hygiene measures to ensure the proper dental development of their babies.
2Children from 2 to 6 years:
During this second stage, baby teeth have settled, and they will soon start to fall out. To ensure the correct eruption of permanent teeth and prevent malocclusion problems, regular dental visits are essential.
During these years, children can begin to take some autonomy in brushing, always under adult supervision, to develop good dental hygiene habits. Our dentists will provide guidelines to both children and parents to guide them in this process.
It is important to monitor cariogenic foods during this stage, which are sugary and sticky foods that can promote cavities. Care should also be taken to prevent premature tooth loss due to trauma, as this could lead to future crowding or improper eruption of permanent teeth. To prevent these problems, we offer early childhood orthodontics.
3Children from 6 to 12 years:
During this stage, the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth takes place. There are two phases within this stage: the first phase, from approximately six to eight years, involves the emergence of incisors, and during the second phase, from eight to twelve years, molars come in.
Cavities remain one of the most significant issues during this period. Proper brushing is essential because plaque accumulates in the gaps due to missing teeth, promoting the development of cavities.
Another common treatment during this stage is orthodontics, which helps prevent tooth movement, crowding, or misalignment during this transitional period. We use braces and invisible orthodontics, with Invisalign First being used from the age of 8.
Subsequently, from 12 to 16 years, adolescents have gained complete autonomy in brushing and basic dental hygiene habits. Nevertheless, it is essential to maintain regular dental visits to control cavities, perform cleanings, etc. Orthodontic treatment may also be necessary at this age, and for this, we offer Invisalign Teen, an invisible orthodontic option.
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If you have any doubts or questions, you can call us, send us a WhatsApp message, or an email. Alternatively, you can visit us in person; we will be delighted to assist you.