What is it?
Pediatric dentistry (pedodontics) is the specialty concerned with children's oral and dental health from infancy to adolescence. At our clinic, Pediatric Dentist Uzm. Dr. Dt. Fulya Sarı works in this field.
The focus of this field is prevention. The aim is to prevent decay, monitor the development of baby and permanent teeth, and carry out any necessary treatment in a way suited to the child's age.
Main procedures:
- Regular examinations and monitoring of development
- Fluoride application
- Fissure sealants
- Fillings and root canal treatment in baby and permanent teeth
- Space maintainers for baby teeth lost early
- Guidance on oral habits (thumb sucking, dummies)
Who may it suit?
- Babies and young children whose first tooth has come through
- All children, for regular check-ups and preventive care
- Children with decay, pain or a dental injury
- Children whose baby teeth are late to fall out or whose permanent teeth are late to come through
The first dental visit is recommended when the first baby tooth appears, or at the latest around the age of one.
How does the process work?
- Getting to know each other. At the first visit, the aim is an introduction and examination with as little treatment as possible, so the child can get used to the setting.
- Examination. The teeth, gums and jaw development are assessed; X-rays are taken if needed.
- Advice for parents. Advice on brushing, diet and habits is given.
- Preventive care. Fluoride and fissure sealants are planned according to decay risk.
- Treatment. Necessary treatment is carried out with attention to the child's cooperation, divided into several short visits if needed.
- Follow-up. The check-up interval is set according to the child's decay risk.
Frequently asked questions
Do baby teeth need treatment if they will fall out anyway?
Yes. Baby teeth are used for chewing and speaking and hold space for the permanent teeth coming through underneath. Untreated decay can lead to pain, infection and effects on the permanent teeth.
What is a fissure sealant?
A thin protective coating applied to the deep grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth. It helps reduce food build-up and decay in these grooves.
When should I start brushing my child's teeth?
From the moment the first tooth appears, teeth should be brushed twice a day. The amount of toothpaste is recommended by the dentist according to the child's age. A parent should help with brushing until the child can brush properly on their own.
My child's tooth was knocked. What should I do?
Time matters with teeth that are knocked out, broken or loose. Details are on the Emergencies page.
Whether it is suitable for you is determined by an examination.