Pedodontic Oral Health (Children’s Oral Health) refers to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental problems in infants, children, and adolescents—including children with special healthcare needs. It focuses on creating healthy habits early and ensuring proper growth of teeth and jaws.
Here’s a clear, concise guide:
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1. Importance of Pedodontic Oral Health
Helps proper development of teeth and jaw.
Prevents early childhood caries (ECC).
Builds lifelong oral hygiene habits.
Ensures proper speech development and chewing.
Reduces fear and anxiety about visiting the dentist.
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2. Key Components
a) Oral Hygiene Practices
Brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste (a smear for <3 years, pea-sized for >3 years).
Supervision by parents until at least 8 years of age.
Flossing once contacts between teeth close (usually around age 6).
b) Diet & Nutrition
Reduce sticky sugary snacks (candies, biscuits, chocolates).
Avoid frequent juice/sweet milk bottles, especially at bedtime.
Encourage water, fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals.
c) Preventive Treatments
Dental sealants for permanent molars to prevent cavities.
Topical fluoride applications every 3–6 months if high risk.
Space maintainers if a primary tooth is lost early.
d) Monitoring Growth & Development
Tracking eruption patterns.
Identifying early malocclusions (crowding, open bite, crossbite).
Early referral to orthodontist if needed (usually by age 7).
