PAEDIATRIC DENTISTRY – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. When should the first dental visit be?
After the first tooth erupts (usually at 6–12 months).
2. Can babies get tooth decay?
Yes. Early childhood caries, known as baby bottle tooth decay, can occur.
3. What is fluoride application and is it safe?
It is a preventive treatment that strengthens tooth enamel. It is safe when applied under the supervision of a dentist.
4. What is a fissure sealant?
A preventive treatment that seals the grooves of the back teeth to prevent caries.
5. Should milk teeth be treated?
Yes. Milk teeth guide the permanent teeth that come in after them and should be treated.
6. Is scaling done for children?
Yes. Tartar can also form in children and needs to be cleaned.
7. What is a space maintainer and why is it used?
An appliance that keeps the space of a milk tooth lost early so that the permanent tooth can erupt properly.
8. Is teeth grinding normal in children?
It is usually temporary, but if it continues it may cause tooth wear and require treatment.
9. What should I do if my child has a dental injury?
See a dentist immediately. If a piece of the tooth has broken off, keep it in milk.
10. My child is afraid of the dentist. What should I do?
Our paediatric dentists use special communication techniques with children. Explaining the visit beforehand in the form of a game is helpful.
11. Does thumb sucking damage the teeth?
Long-term thumb sucking can cause deformities of the teeth and jaw.
12. When should children start brushing their teeth?
Cleaning with a soft brush should start as soon as the first tooth erupts.
13. When does the permanent tooth erupt after a milk tooth is extracted?
Usually within 3–6 months. If it takes longer than a year, it should be checked.
14. What causes bad breath in children?
It may be caused by tooth decay, gum inflammation, tonsillitis or mouth breathing.