A pediatric dental specialist focuses on the dental needs of children and adolescents, addressing conditions of the oral cavity (mouth, teeth, and gums) and the maxillofacial area (head, neck, face, and jaw). Their primary goals include disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment while promoting healthy oral habits for lifelong oral health.

A pediatric dentist typically:

• Conducts dental and medical history assessments and performs oral and dental examinations.
• Educates patients on dental conditions, good oral hygiene, and disease prevention.
• Orders and interprets laboratory and imaging tests like X-rays and saliva tests.
• Prescribes medications, such as antibiotics and pain relievers.
• Diagnoses oral and maxillofacial conditions based on assessments and tests.
• Provides preventive care like dental cleanings and fluoride treatments.
• Treats various oral conditions including tooth decay, gum disease, and TMJ disorder.
• Collaborates with other dental specialists and physicians for comprehensive care.

A pediatric dentist may also be referred to as a pedodontist, kids' dentist, dentist for children, children’s dentist, Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD).

Who should visit a pediatric dentist?

All children and adolescents, including those with physical or mental disabilities, should receive regular dental care throughout childhood. Routine pediatric dental care is essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Dental care should commence when a child gets their first tooth or no later than one year of age. Typically, regular pediatric dental care involves a routine dental cleaning and examination every six months, or more frequently as advised by your pediatric dentist. The frequency of dental visits for your child depends on their specific dental needs, such as plaque and tartar buildup, rate of decay, and susceptibility to gum disease (periodontal disease).

When should you see a pediatric dentist?

Besides regular dental check-ups, consider consulting an experienced pediatric dentist if your child exhibits any of the following symptoms or conditions:

• Persistent bad breath or dry mouth.
• Gums that are draining or bleeding.
• Changes in the appearance of their teeth, gums, lips, or tongue.
• Crooked or discolored teeth.
• Delayed tooth eruption or tooth loss.
• Medical conditions that increase the risk of dental issues, such as diabetes.
• Sensitivity to hot and cold beverages or pain while chewing.
• Tooth, mouth, or jaw pain, or swelling of oral tissues like the gums.
• For older children and teenagers, behaviors that elevate their risk of dental problems, including participating in contact sports, frequent snacking between meals (a risk factor for cavities), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and engaging in high-risk oral sex practices.