Proper dental care is a lifelong endeavor that takes intentionality and dedication. Still, there are differences in the practices and dental requirements of people in different age groups. This means that the dental care prescribed for a child and an adult will look very different. Although there are some shared attributes, each age group will have its own requirements for maintaining the highest level of oral health possible. Today, we answer the question, How does dental care for children differ from that for adults?” and share information that will help you protect your oral health.
What Is Pediatric Dental Care?
Pediatric dental care refers to a dental care practice that is intended specifically to rectify the issues that arise in the dental health of children. A pediatric dentist has been trained specifically to address these issues as they arise, making them a preferred specialist in such matters.
How Are Children’s and Adult Dental Care the Same?
Many elements of adult and child dental care are precisely the same. This includes brushing twice a day using dentist-recommended toothpaste, flossing, and using mouthwash. In addition, it dentists recommend that people of all ages eat a high-nutrient diet with a minimal amount of refined sugars and other materials that are harmful to the teeth. On the whole, a person’s daily oral health routine will be consistent from childhood to adulthood.
How Does Dental Care for Children Differ from that for Adults?
There are several areas where the dental care of children and adults differs. Educating yourself about these elements can help you ensure the continued excellent dental health of both you and your child. Below are some of the primary differences between child and adult dental care:
Caring for Baby Teeth
Baby teeth are temporary sets of teeth that grow into a child’s mouth and then eventually fall out, making way for the more permanent sets of teeth later on.
Despite this fact, baby teeth still need care and maintenance to prevent them from developing issues such as cavities and other problems. In addition, the development of baby teeth guides the development of adult teeth. Therefore, caring for the baby teeth while they are present is essential to the development of a healthy set of adult teeth in the future.
Flouride Treatments
The teeth of children are particularly sensitive and can benefit heavily from frequent fluoride treatments. As a result, children often have fluoride treatments more frequently than adults do, as regular fluoride treatments from a young age can give a child a higher level of dental health for the rest of their life.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are another type of dental application that is commonly used in pediatric dentistry. They can protect the teeth and prevent further tooth decay and operations in the future. Dental sealants are a material that assists in the prevention of cavities and other dental issues.
Oral Health Considerations
Adolescence is the most common time for an individual to receive orthodontic treatment to adjust the position and shape of their teeth. You may have discussions with your dentist prior to adolescence to determine whether your child can anticipate needing work like this in the future. Nowadays, there are many different options for orthodontic fixtures, beyond the stereotypical set of braces.
Pediatric Dentistry in Southern California
The team at Turquoise Dental offers customers the very best in both adult and pediatric dental care. If you have questions regarding the care of your child’s teeth, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our family dentistry.
