Pediatric Dentistry Gaithersburg MD As a parent, we want to take great care of our children. When it comes to health care, a pediatrician is used because they specialize in the health and well being of children. An age-based specialist is also required for oral health care, with parents in search of a pediatric dentist to take care of teeth and gum health. Pediatric dentistry plays a vital role in the oral health of children and is a must to ensure your child has strong and healthy teeth. Here at MVP Smiles, we offer a variety of services, helping to care for your child in the best way possible. What is a Pediatric Dentist?A pediatric dentist is an oral health professional who has finished a specialized course in the dental field that focuses on children. The goal is to provide specialized care for children or a gentler approach to oral health. A pediatric dentist completes an additional two to three years of education after they graduate from dental school to be able to take on the task of dealing with children’s oral health needs. In training, the specialist will have received hospital training, working with kids who have severe dental emergencies or specific needs. The specialist will also be trained in orthodontic care, being able to provide teeth straightening techniques. Patients of a pediatric dentist will range in age from birth to college. A pediatric dentist is trained to care for children as their teeth come in during the infant stages as well as when the baby teeth fall out, and permanent teeth come in. Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?So, why should you choose a pediatric dentist for your child instead of a general dentist? One of the most common reasons a parent will choose a pediatric dentist is because they are trained to care for children and want to be able to help kids with their oral health. While general dentists can treat children, a pediatric dentist has specialized skills and knows how to handle children of all ages. It takes special dedication and knowledge to be able to help every child, as all personalities are different. Some kids will be easy to handle as they are willing to complete dental treatments while others may require a bit more finesse. Benefits of Choosing a Pediatric DentistThere are several benefits to using a pediatric dentist, including prevention and treatment of oral health care needs. Parents are educated by the dentist as to the best way to treat their kids when it comes brushing and flossing as well as additional needs such as teeth straightening. A pediatric dentist knows the ins and outs of oral health care for kids, easily able to treat each child as needed. For parents, the pediatric dentist is the right choice for quality health care. For kids, the specialized dentist makes the appointments more bearable, even fun. It’s a win-win situation for your family members. 
Child's First VisitWe will take great care of your child and will allow you to be there for every step to make sure your child is calm, unharmed, and happy. Here at MVP Smiles our professional staff will make you and your child feel at home during their dental cleaning. Read more about your child's first dental visit. Infant Dental CareThe American Dental Association (ADA) states that a child should receive a professional evaluation by their first birthday, or by the time their first tooth erupts. Proper infant dental care can prevent early instances of tooth decay and gum disease. It also helps us catch and correct development issues before they cause major problems for their permanent teeth. Learn more about dental care for your infant. Cleanings & ExamsThe American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a routine check-up up roughly twice a year. A routine appointment with our doctors will typically include a professional cleaning and a detailed examination of your child's teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. Learn more about routine check-ups. Dental SealantsSometimes, the best way to maintain a smile is to prevent potential problems. At MVP Smiles, we offer dental sealants to protect teeth from decay. Learn More about dental sealants. Flouride TreatmentsFluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral usually found in water and certain foods. It is also one of the minerals that make up our enamel, the hard outer layer of a tooth. Discover more about fluoride treatments. Space MaintainersIf your child has lost a tooth due to an accident or decay, it is essential that the space is maintained to prevent any issues in the future. Dental problems can arise due to space loss, which can lead to shifting of teeth. This can result in permanent teeth having trouble erupting. With space maintenance, the empty space where a tooth was removed is cared for, ensuring teeth can grow and erupt normally. Here at MVP Smiles, we can provide space maintenance for your child when they lose a tooth due to decay or an accident. Read more about space maintainers. Cavities and FillingsWe use fillings to restore teeth to their original form and function if they are affected by tooth decay. Read more about dental fillings. Laser DentistryLaser dentistry allows for minimally invasive procedures and reduced discomfort during and after treatment. The advanced technology also allows for greater precision and accuracy, resulting in improved outcomes for a variety of procedures, including cavity treatment, frenectomy, and gum contouring. At MVP Smiles, the use of lasers is just one way they strive to provide the best possible dental care for children in a comfortable and stress-free environment. Learn more about laser dentistry. ExtractionsWhile we will always try to preserve teeth, there are certain occasions where extraction is necessary. We may recommend an extraction to remove a problematic tooth that would otherwise create worse complications for your child’s oral health. The most common reasons for extraction include:
Root CanalsSaving a primary tooth can be just as important as protecting a permanent one. Premature tooth loss can cause the remaining teeth to shift out of alignment, which interferes with speech, chewing, and the eruption of permanent teeth. If your child has deep tooth decay that affects the interior pulp, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth. The pulp consists of the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues responsible for the life of the tooth. Infection in the pulp can jeopardize the tooth and result in significant pain. During a root canal, we remove the affected pulp to stop the spread of infection and save the tooth. Learn more about root canals. Frenectomy ProcedureA frenectomy is a cosmetic and restorative procedure designed to address problems related to the frenum (a band of soft tissue). There two frenums in the mouth: one that attaches the gums to the upper lip and one that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. A labial frenectomy will correct a gap between the two upper front teeth. A lingual frenectomy will correct the immobility issues with the tongue. We may recommend a frenectomy if your child’s frenum is too tough, large, short, or tight. Learn more about the frenectomy procedure. MouthguardsIf your child participates in physical activities that put them at risk for dental trauma or injury, we strongly recommend a mouthguard. A mouthguard will protect their teeth and prevent dental emergencies. If your child suffers from bruxism (teeth grinding), we may also recommend a night guard. Many patients with bruxism tend to grind their teeth during sleep. A night guard acts as a barrier that prevents enamel wear. Read more about the importance of mouthguard. Emergency DentistryA dental emergency is typically the result of trauma or injury to the face. Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Most dental emergencies require swift action and an immediate appointment. Discover more about emergency dentistry. Pediatric Dentistry in Gaithersburg MDSpecializing in dental care for children, MVP Smiles promotes a welcoming, kid-friendly environment that makes dental visits positive and fun. From routine check-ups to preventive care, we're dedicated to laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Contact us or call our office at (240) 981-4020 today to schedule an appointment |
