Children's dentists, also known as pedodontists or odontopediatricians, are specially trained to provide oral health care for patients aged 0-18. They have an excellent knowledge of the dental anatomy and physiology of infants, children and adolescents, as well as the pathologies specific to these age groups. They also know how to adapt their treatment and care methods to the particularities of each age group.

How is a child dentist trained?

To become a dentist specializing in pediatrics, the practitioner must first complete a university course in dentistry. This leads to the state diploma of Doctor of Dental Surgery. He must then continue with a further three years' training in pediatric dentistry. This specialization program includes theoretical and clinical courses, as well as training in child psychology.

What types of care can a children's dentist provide?

Pedodontists are qualified to carry out the various types of interventions required to care for the oral health of infants through to adolescents:

• Preventive consultations: these raise awareness among children and their families of theimportance of oralhygiene, and help them to adopt effective brushing habits.
• Detecting and treating cavities: in the event of lesions on the surface of the teeth, it's essential to consult a specialist for a precise diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• Sealants: to protect permanent molars, a protective resin can be applied to prevent the development of cavity-causing bacteria.
• Treatment of bite problems: when the jaw is not in the right position or teeth are misaligned, orthodontic appliances can be fitted.

The child dentist's specific skills

In addition to conventional dental care for children, a dentist specializing in pediatrics has special skills to meet the specific needs of this population. These include :

• Behavior management: young patients often express fear or anxiety about dental treatment. Pedodontists know how to identify these signs and adapt their approach to establish a climate of trust.
• Monitoring specific pathologies: certain oral disorders are more common in children, such as ectopic eruption (teeth growing out of their normal position), traumatic dental fractures or ankylosis (immobilization of a tooth in the bone). Children's dentists are trained to diagnose and treat these problems.
• Treatment under conscious sedation: in certain situations, light sedation may be necessary to reduce patient anxiety and facilitate treatment. The odontopediatrician masters the various sedation techniques and knows how to determine the most appropriate one.

Why choose a specialist dentist for your child?

There are several reasons why it is preferable to consult an expert pediatric dentist to provide the best care for your child:

1. Know-how: thanks to their specific training, children's dentists are perfectly equipped to understand children's particular needs.
2. Developmental support: Milk teeth play an essential role in the development of the jaw and in preparing the space for the growth of permanent teeth. A pedodontist provides close monitoring to ensure a smooth transition between these two stages.
3. A suitable environment: the offices of dentists specializing in pediatrics are generally designed to accommodate children, offering them a reassuring and comfortable space.

How to choose the right child dentist?

To find a competent and reliable pedodontist, you can consider several criteria:

• Reputation: it's important to find out what other parents think, especially via the Internet or dedicated forums.
• Qualifications: don't hesitate to ask the practitioner about his or her qualifications and experience before entrusting your child's oral health to him or her.
• Contact with the child: during the first consultation, observe how the dentist interacts with your child. You'll be able to assess whether a climate of trust and relaxation has been established.
• Rates: find out about the cost of treatment and any reimbursements from your mutual insurance company to avoid any surprises.

Ultimately, choosing the right dentist for your child is essential to ensure regular monitoring of his or her oral health. This guarantees good hygiene throughout the child's growth. Don't hesitate to visit a professional specialized in pediatrics. You'll benefit from care tailored to your child's specific needs.