5 Specialized Services You Can Expect When Choosing A Pediatric Dentist
When it comes to your child’s oral health, choosing the right dentist is crucial. At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Mission Viejo, California, Dr. John De Lorme and his team provide exceptional dental care tailored to children’s unique needs in Laguna Niguel, California. Pediatric dentists undergo additional training to ensure they can address the specific challenges young patients face, making their services distinct from general dentistry. Here are five specialized services that set pediatric dentists apart.
1. Infant Oral Health Exams
Pediatric dentists focus on early prevention, offering comprehensive infant oral health exams. These checkups, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, should begin by a child’s first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Dr. John De Lorme evaluates your baby’s gums, developing teeth, and oral habits while guiding proper oral hygiene and diet. Early visits help prevent cavities and establish a foundation for lifelong dental health.
2. Behavior Management Techniques
Children can often feel anxious or fearful about visiting the dentist. Pediatric dentists are trained in behavior management techniques that help create a comfortable and stress-free experience. From using child-friendly language to employing distraction techniques such as storytelling or music, Dr. John De Lorme and his team at South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics ensure that even the most nervous patients feel at ease. Additionally, sedation dentistry options may be available for children with special needs or severe dental anxiety.
3. Dental Sealants for Early Cavity Prevention
Preventing cavities in children is a top priority, and one of the most effective ways to do so is with dental sealants. These thin protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent food and bacteria from settling into hard-to-clean areas. Sealants are painless, quick to use, and have been proven to reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80%. Pediatric dentists like Dr. De Lorme specialize in providing this preventative treatment to keep young smiles healthy.
4. Interceptive Orthodontics
Unlike general dentists, pediatric specialists can provide interceptive orthodontic care, focusing on guiding jaw growth and preventing severe alignment issues before they develop. Early orthodontic evaluation can identify overcrowding, bite misalignment, or jaw irregularities. Dr. De Lorme and his team at South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offer space maintainers, expanders, and other early interventions to ensure proper development and reduce the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later on.
Root Canal
5. Pulpotomy (Baby Root Canal)
When a child’s tooth suffers from deep decay or trauma, a pulpotomy, also known as a baby root canal, may be necessary to save the tooth. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp tissue from the tooth’s crown while preserving the healthy portion in the roots. A medicated filling is placed to prevent further infection, and a crown is typically placed to protect the tooth. Dr. De Lorme and his team at South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics provide gentle pulpotomy treatments to help children maintain their primary teeth until they naturally fall out.
Give Your Child the Best Start for a Healthy Smile!
Choosing a pediatric dentist ensures your child receives the specialized care they need for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. At South OC Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Mission Viejo, CA, Dr. John De Lorme and his dedicated team provide a welcoming environment designed for young patients. Whether your child needs a routine exam, preventative treatment, or early orthodontic care, they are in expert hands. Schedule an appointment today by calling (949) 581 5800!