The basics of oral care for children and grownups are the same. Everybody has to brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste from childhood to adult years a minimum of twice a day. Flossing a minimum of once a day is likewise encouraged to prevent cavities. Diet is also important concerning dental care.

However, why does one need to know the difference between pediatric and adult dentistry? What makes both important, and when does one transition into the other?

How Pediatric and Adult Dentistry Differ

Although the oral health routine is similar, jaws and teeth will develop at varying rates throughout different age groups. There are also procedures that only adults are suggested to get. These make the focus of pediatric and adult dentistry different. Here is a contrast to highlight the value of both.

Dental Care for Children

Pediatric dentistry concentrates on the natural development of teeth, gums, and bones from primary to permanent teeth. Children’s bodies are continually growing. The pediatric dentist’s task is to ensure that their teeth and gums do not develop problems.

This preventive care guarantees the foundation for healthy teeth and gums starting from an early age. These dentists are likewise responsible for teaching children correct oral hygiene.

Treatment and Procedures

Procedures differ depending on the patient’s age. During children’s bi-annual examinations, the dentist will guarantee teeth are cleaned up and might advise several treatments. Here are some of the common ones.

Fluoride and Dental Sealants

Because younger children’s teeth have thinner enamel, they are more prone to cavities. The dentist may suggest fluoride treatments and sealants for young patients. These preventive treatments safeguard children’s growing teeth from decay and expensive dental treatments in the future.

Braces or Aligners

Pediatric dentists monitor primary teeth until they fall off and check on the eruption and development of permanent teeth. From the ages of 9 to 14, they may advise braces or aligners if there are orthopedic issues. There is no age limitation to the treatment. Still, dentists can prevent any problem from escalating with interceptive action as early as possible.

Dental Care for Adults

When a patient turns 18, the transition is made. There are 32 or 28 (after wisdom teeth are removed) adult teeth that are anticipated to last the duration of a person’s lifetime. For that reason, the focus of adult dental care shifts largely to maintenance.

Although oral hygiene is impeccable, some factors might affect the teeth. A great deal of adult dental issues depend upon habits. Adults may develop a taste for food, drinks, and even tobacco, which can impact teeth and gum health.

Treatment and Procedures

Dentists examine overall dental health during bi-annual examinations and typically carry out x-rays. The dentist advises required treatments focused on repairing or restoring damaged oral structures. Some treatments are likewise recommended to perfect one’s smile, like the fabulous veneers Kelowna dentists make.

Restorative Treatments

These treatments may include dental crowns, dentures, or bridges. Those that require treatments under sedation include oral surgery Burnaby dentists perform, such as wisdom tooth extractions and dental implants. These treatments ensure that the mouth’s structure is optimal, including gum and bone conditions.

Cosmetic Treatments

Such treatments may include veneers, teeth whitening Windsor clinics offer, and anything that can help highlight the very best smile one can have. Cosmetic treatments are not restricted to grownups and may be done to kids’ teeth. It is much better to wait until adulthood. This way, the enamel’s integrity is protected, and the bone structure has matured.