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Dental and Oral Health (Children)

Dental and Oral Health (Children) Overview

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that all children be seen by a dentist by age 1 year or within 6 months of eruption of the first tooth.  Pediatric dentists dedicate themselves to the oral health of children from infancy through the teen years.  They also take care of patients with special health care needs, such as the disabled.

Pediatric dentists not only take care of decaying teeth, but also manage issues with growth and development. Today, tooth decay is less of a problem for some children but an increasing problem for others. Pediatric dentists emphasize proper care and maintenance in order to prevent cavities and other problems.

Apart from being able to handle the majority of the dental needs of children, a pediatric dentist also needs to know the basics of pediatric medicine, nutrition, and the emotional and psychological needs of children.  This helps the pediatric dentist establish a "dental home" where the complete oral health needs of their patients can be met.

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Last Reviewed: Sep 12, 2006

The Ohio State University Dennis J. McTigue, DDS
Professor of Pediatric Dentistry
Section of Pediatric Dentistry
College of Dentistry
The Ohio State University
Dennis J. McTigue, DDS

 
The Ohio State University Sarat Thikkurissy, DDS, MS
Assistant Professor
Section of Pediatric Dentistry
College of Dentistry
The Ohio State University
Sarat  Thikkurissy, DDS, MS