Treatments

Pediatric Dentistry

We accompany the growth of your children's smiles from their earliest months, promoting strong oral health and complete confidence in the dental environment.

Pediatric Dentistry

What is Pediatric Dentistry?

It is the dental specialty dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases in infants, children, and adolescents, as well as in patients with special needs during their growth and development. Its goal is to maintain oral health from childhood, promote proper hygiene habits, and foster the correct development of teeth and jaws.

At Clínica Ortigosa, we also offer informative sessions for pregnant women on prevention, supporting them throughout pregnancy with guidance and care to promote the oral health of both mother and baby.

Key Objectives:

Promote oral health from an early age and prevent cavities and gum disease

Diagnose and treat conditions in primary and young permanent teeth

Monitor jaw growth and tooth eruption

Educate children and parents on oral hygiene and healthy nutrition

Detect early abnormalities requiring orthodontic treatment

The Importance of Primary Teeth

Commonly known as "baby teeth," primary teeth serve essential organic and developmental functions for children:

Allow for proper food chewing during growth stages

Directly support speech development and proper pronunciation

Act as natural space maintainers for the proper eruption of permanent teeth

Contribute to the harmonious, normal growth of the jaws

Enhance facial aesthetics and self-esteem from early childhood

 

Important clinical note:
The premature loss of a primary tooth should never be considered insignificant, as it can cause serious occlusion issues and directly affect the eruption of adult teeth.

Main Oral Health Problems and Conditions in Childhood

Dental Caries (Cavities)

The most common oral disease in childhood. It can affect primary and permanent teeth and, if left untreated, leads to pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Pediatric Gingivitis

Gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup, characterized by redness and bleeding when brushing.

Dental Trauma

Fractures, dislocations, and avulsions resulting from falls or accidents during play or sports.

Eruption Disorders

Delays, impacted teeth, or ectopic eruption that affect normal dental development.

Malocclusions

Misalignments in tooth positioning or jaw relationships. Early detection allows for interceptive treatments when indicated.

Enamel Defects

Hypomineralization (MIH: Molar Incisor Hypomineralization, DMH: Deciduous Molar Hypomineralization, PEH: Hypomineralization in other permanent teeth) and enamel hypoplasia.

When to Schedule the First Visit?

It is recommended to make first contact with the pediatric dentist during pregnancy to guide the mother-to-be on breastfeeding, artificial nipples, nutrition, and healthy habits that promote the baby's oral health right from birth.

Reduce patient fear and anxiety, establishing a relationship of trust with the child and family

Encourage cooperative behavior and prevent traumatic experiences related to dental care

Promote regular checkups and a positive attitude toward lifelong oral care

FAQ´S

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry

When should the first visit to the pediatric dentist take place?

The first dental visit should happen when the first tooth erupts. During this visit, oral development is assessed, cavity risk factors are identified, and parents receive guidance on hygiene and preventive habits from the earliest months of life.

Is it really important to treat cavities in baby teeth?

Yes, it is essential. Although they are primary teeth, they serve vital functions like chewing, speech development, and maintaining space for permanent teeth. If a cavity goes untreated, it can cause severe pain, localized infections, and adversely affect the eruption of permanent adult teeth.

How can we help children not feel afraid of the dentist?

Managing fear centers on preventing traumatic experiences and introducing children early to the clinical environment. Pediatric dentists use tailored communication techniques and a playful approach to reduce anxiety, fostering a relationship of trust and a positive attitude toward oral healthcare.

What are interceptive treatments in children?

They are early orthodontic procedures designed to correct tooth misalignments or jaw relationships while the child is still growing. Their goal is to guide bone and dental development to prevent more complex problems or invasive treatments in adolescence.

How often should children have dental checkups?

Generally, regular checkups are recommended every 6 months. However, the exact frequency is customized based on the child's cavity risk, hygiene habits, and overall progress during growth and tooth eruption.