What does a Dentist that sees Children Actually Do?

Dr. Eric Johnson practices several different kinds of dentistry, from restorative to cosmetic, but this month is all about pediatric dentistry -- so what exactly does that entail? The dentist who sees children does a lot more than teeth scrubbing and give free toothbrushes.

Pediatric dentists rarely have to worry about crowns and bridges and fillings, for example -- but it's a lot more than just fluoride scrubs and free floss.

A dentist who sees children...

• Helps to delay and hinder tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other forms of oral disease that can affect a child.
• Follows the growth of baby teeth, tracking them through adolescence when they are lost and replaced with adult teeth.
• Educates the child about the importance of good oral hygiene and the exact techniques the child should use to take care of their mouth at home.
• Educates the parent about tooth-healthy dietary practices, as well as about what to expect next in the child's oral development.
• Addresses a variety of child-specific oral issues such as thumb-sucking or pacifier use.

Dozens of scientific studies have proven that a child's oral health is linked to their social relationships, school performance, self esteem, confidence, and even their long-term cardiovascular health. That's why dentists who see children take their jobs very seriously -- in the long run, it's about a lot more than cavities and plaque.