INFORMATION

A pediatric dentist undergoes 2 to 3 additional years of specialized training following dental school that is focused on infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric dentists monitor dental growth and development through the various stages of childhood and help children avoid future dental problems. A children’s dentist in Inglewood, CA can provide comprehensive oral health care that includes oral health exams, preventative dental care such as fluoride treatments and sealants, habit counseling, early assessment, cavity repair, and care for dental injuries.

It’s a common misconception that primary teeth are not important because they will eventually fall out and be replaced by permanent teeth. While “baby” teeth are meant to fall out, they still serve several very important functions and need to be cared for. Your child’s primary teeth don’t just help your child chew and speak properly; they also hold the space in the jaws for the permanent teeth that are already growing. When a baby tooth is lost early or needs to be pulled, the permanent tooth no longer has a guide. The baby teeth are meant to guide the permanent teeth into the correct position. Without a baby tooth, the space for the permanent tooth may be reduced or the tooth may come in crooked or misaligned.

There is a wide spectrum during which your child’s primary teeth can erupt and when permanent teeth begin to appear. Teeth begin to form before birth and usually start to erupt as young as 4 months or even younger. The first teeth to erupt are usually the lower central incisors then the upper central incisors. By the age of 3, most children have all 20 primary teeth. Primary teeth are usually lost in the order in which they appear. Permanent teeth usually begin to erupt around the age of 6 beginning with the first molars and lower central incisors. Permanent teeth will continue to appear until around the age of 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth and may have up to 4 third molars or wisdom teeth.

Sedation dentistry is a safe option to help combat your child’s fear of seeing a children’s dentist. There are three types of sedation dentistry that a pediatric dentist may use. The most common is nitrous oxide. A nitrous oxide children’s dentist may recommend this mild form of sedation to help your child feel more comfortable. It’s also the safest option. Oral conscious sedation also has minimal risks because the medication will be administered based on your child’s weight to stay within safe guidelines. IV sedation or sleep sedation is administered via IV. While this form of sedation comes with the greatest risk, it is typically well tolerated with minimal adverse reactions.

Are you searching for a children’s dentist that accepts MediCal or Medicaid? At Smile Street Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to protecting the oral health of all children in Los Angeles, Inglewood, Brentwood, and surrounding areas. We accept all forms of insurance, including MediCal and Medicaid to help you access high-quality dental care for your child. If you are searching for an experienced pediatric dentist that takes Medicaid and MediCal in the Los Angeles area, please give us a call to schedule an appointment.