Pediatric Dentistry Specialist

What is pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a branch of oral health care that diagnoses and treats tooth decay, gum disease, jaw misalignments (malocclusion), and other common mouth-related problems in children and teenagers. 

It’s important your child participates in pediatric dentistry from an early age. This is due to the fact that your child’s oral health and physical health directly impact one another. If your child’s teeth and gums are healthy, they’re less likely to experience chronic health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes.

What does pediatric dentistry involve?

At Sunshine Dental, Dr. Balakrishna and the team offer a full suite of pediatric dentistry services, including:

Preventive oral exams

A preventive oral exam involves a thorough inspection of your son or daughter’s mouth. During this type of appointment, Dr. Balakrishna looks for the early onset of infection, tooth damage, cavities, or gum disease. She also conducts a professional cleaning, removing plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria from the surface of your child’s teeth. 

Fluoride treatment

Fluoride is an essential mineral present in everyone’s teeth. A fluoride treatment boosts the strength and durability of your child’s teeth, making them less susceptible to cavities and decay. Additionally, fluoride protects your child’s mouth from harmful bacteria and microbes.

Sealants

If your child is at risk of developing a cavity, Dr. Balakrishna might recommend dental sealants. A sealant is a customizable acrylic filling applied between the grooves of the molars and premolars. The sealant prevents the accumulation of harmful bacteria, and in turn, tooth decay.

Oral education

Just like adults, children should brush and floss regularly, eat a balanced diet, and drink plenty of water. Dr. Balakrishna regularly educates parents on how to best take care of their child’s teeth. She also provides age-appropriate guidance for children and teenagers, ensuring they play an active role in their oral well-being.

Sedation dentistry

If your son or daughter experiences dental anxiety or they have trouble sitting still, the team at Sunshine Dental offers sedation dentistry. Nitrous oxide or laughing gas lets your child relax and feel comfortable while receiving the care they need.

Can I schedule an appointment at the same time as my child?

At Sunshine Dental, Dr. Balakrishna and the team provide specialized care for adults and kids under the same roof. If you’d like to schedule your own oral exam and cleaning at the same time as your child, the team is happy to accommodate your needs. It’s a great way to save time and prevent multiple trips to the office.

To schedule a  pediatric dentistry appointment for your son or daughter at Sunshine Dental, call the office or book online today.