Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry responsible for treating children. In addition, they are responsible for detecting anomalies in the position of the jaws or teeth. If your child’s Pediatric dentist in Arlington, TX does find an issue, they may be able to repair the problem. Then again, they do have the option to refer you out to one of their reputable colleagues.
The difference between your everyday dentist and a pediatric dentist is that the latter is trained specifically in the presence of primary teeth. These dental professionals are specialists that perform a diagnosis and monitoring of pediatric patients, which facilitates in the correct evolution and the development of a strong, healthy mouth. Carrier Dentistry offers familiarization sessions for children so they can become familiar with dentistry from an early age. This helps them get accustomed to the atmosphere, equipment and materials used in the dental clinic, which avoids future fears.
One of the first, and most exciting things that your child will undergo in the dental clinic, is an x-ray. These represent an invaluable diagnostic tool in dentistry because it allows a dentist to evaluate the state of your child’s innermost pathology. By doing so, the dentist can act accordingly. However, in the case of children, dentists tend to take more precautions because of radiation. Even though these levels are very low and controlled, it is still something dentists take very seriously.
Using X-rays as a diagnostic tool in children will allow the following assessments:
* See if your child’s teeth are developing properly (if they will have enough space to settle properly in the mouth);
* View the number, size and position of the teeth that are still inside gum;
* Find out if teeth are missing or if there are extra teeth;
* Monitor any lesions in the mouth;
* Evaluate the presence of infections;
* Plan an orthodontic treatment (if necessary);
* Detect problems that cannot be seen with a visual examination; and
* Identify bone disease.
While there is no standard schedule to determine the need for x-rays, the need varies depending on the individual development and dental health of the child. The decision is usually made when the child has had many cavities and fillings, or has had a high risk of developing tooth decay. However, many dentists choose, as a preventive measure, to limit radiographs to six-month periods. For more information on the above topic, contact your local Pediatric dentist in Arlington, TX.
