What is Pedodontics?
Pedodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with the oral and dental health of children. This field aims to protect children’s dental health from the time their primary teeth begin to erupt until the permanent teeth are formed. Pedodontics encompasses not only dental treatments but also instilling dental care habits in children. Early checkups are crucial for preventing tooth decay and properly guiding jaw development. Furthermore, conditions such as teeth grinding, trauma, and gum problems in children are also considered within the scope of pedodontics. By creating an environment where children can receive treatment without fear and with confidence, we eliminate the fear of the dentist and lay the foundation for a healthy smile at an early age.
What Age Range Does Pedodontics Cover?
Pedodontics covers all children from birth to 12-13 years of age. However, because jaw development and tooth placement vary from individual to individual, follow-up may be necessary until age 15-16 in some cases. During this period, children’s primary teeth fall out and permanent teeth begin to erupt, and this transition requires dental care. Dental checkups initiated at an early age help prevent cavities before they develop. Furthermore, by monitoring a child’s jaw development, orthodontic problems can be diagnosed early. Regular pedodontic checkups are the most effective way to protect children’s dental health. We make dental care easy and enjoyable with approaches appropriate to children’s age and development, ensuring the longevity of healthy teeth.
What Does a Pedodontist Do?
A pediatric dentist is a specialist responsible for protecting and treating children’s dental health. They plan age-appropriate dental treatments for children, treat tooth decay, and implement preventative measures. Fluoride applications, fissure sealants, fillings, and root canal treatments are among the most common procedures performed by pediatric dentists. They also determine the appropriate treatment methods for cases of dental trauma, clenching habits, and premature tooth loss. Pedodontists take children’s psychology into account and use specialized communication techniques to prevent dental anxiety. Furthermore, children’s jaw development and tooth alignment are regularly monitored. We adopt a gentle and patient approach to ensure every child can receive safe treatment and ensure healthy dental development.
Why is Dental Health Important in Children?
Dental health in childhood is crucial for both physical development and future dental health. Primary teeth affect not only chewing function but also speech development and the placement of permanent teeth. Early loss of primary teeth can negatively impact jaw development and lead to orthodontic problems later in life. Furthermore, tooth decay, which begins in childhood, increases the risk of pain and infection, affecting overall health. Regular brushing and regular dental checkups help prevent these risks. Maintaining dental health is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for self-confidence. Children with healthy teeth smile more comfortably and feel more confident in their social interactions. We protect children’s dental health with regular checkups, starting early and ensuring they have healthier, stronger, and more aesthetically pleasing teeth in later life.
What Treatments Are Used in Pedodontics?
Pedodontics is a multifaceted specialty that aims to protect children’s oral and dental health. Many treatments are implemented within this scope. Fluoride application is frequently used to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. Fissure sealants, in particular, prevent cavities that may occur on the chewing surfaces of molars. Pedodontics also covers the treatment of decay in primary teeth, fillings, primary tooth extractions, root canal treatments, and repair of traumatic tooth fractures. Protective aligner treatments are also used for bruxism and teeth grinding. Additionally, early orthodontic guidance regarding tooth alignment is an important part of pedodontic examinations. We offer painless and safe treatment methods suitable for all ages to ensure children continue their healthy dental development.
When Should Children Have Their First Dental Checkup?
Children’s first dental checkup should occur when their first tooth emerges. This is usually between 6 and 12 months of age. Early checkups not only monitor oral development but also guide parents in proper dental hygiene. These checkups are crucial for early detection of the risk of cavities. As the baby teeth emerge, nutritional recommendations appropriate for the child’s dental structure are also made during this period. Regular checkups, starting with the first checkup, also help prevent fear of the dentist because children begin to view the dentist not as a source of fear, but as someone who can help them. We create a warm, friendly, and playful environment to ensure that children’s first experiences with the dentist are enjoyable and reassuring.
How to Overcome Children’s Fear of the Dentist?
Fear of the dentist often stems from negative experiences acquired at an early age. Therefore, children’s first encounter with the dentist is crucial. The language and approach used during the treatment process should be appropriate for the child. Pedodontists make the process enjoyable by using communication techniques appropriate for child psychology. Children are introduced to the instruments used before treatment in simple and understandable language, thus alleviating fear of the unknown. Furthermore, painless treatment methods help children gain confidence. Patient, calm, and encouraging communication throughout the treatment process also reduces fear. We foster a positive relationship with the dentist, ensuring that all future dental treatments are more comfortable.
How Do Pedodontic Treatments Affect Permanent Teeth?
Pedodontic treatments not only protect primary teeth but also support the healthy eruption of permanent teeth. Primary teeth serve as guides for the permanent teeth that will emerge. The premature loss of these teeth can lead to crooked permanent teeth or jaw structure deformities. Pedodontic treatments aim to preserve primary teeth for as long as possible. Fluoride and fissure sealants prevent decay and ensure the eruption of permanent teeth. Furthermore, early detection of conditions such as teeth grinding, jaw developmental disorders, or gaps can prevent orthodontic problems later in life. We closely monitor children’s dental development to ensure the healthy, smooth, and aesthetic eruption of permanent teeth.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay in Children?
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems in children, and it can be prevented with regular care. A daily brushing habit is the most effective way to reduce the risk of cavities. Children’s teeth should be brushed twice a day with age-appropriate fluoride-containing toothpaste. Sugary foods and drinks should also be limited, and milk and fruit juice should be avoided, especially before bed. Dental floss can be used with parental assistance to clean between teeth. Pedodontists also apply fissure sealants and fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, preventing cavities. Regular dental checkups, starting at an early age, prevent cavities from developing unnoticed. We encourage both families and children to instill proper dental care habits to protect their children’s dental health and foster a cavity-free mouth.
Pedodontic Treatment Prices in 2026
Pedodontic treatment prices in 2026 generally range between 100 USD and 800 USD, depending on the procedure and child’s dental needs. Treatments may include fillings, fluoride applications, sealants, extractions, or preventive care tailored for children. Costs vary with procedure complexity, number of teeth involved, and materials used. The dentist’s expertise and clinic technology can also affect the final price. On average, pedodontic treatments focus on protecting children’s oral health, preventing future dental problems, and ensuring proper development of healthy, strong, and functional teeth.
Does a Baby Tooth Need Treatment?
Yes, if a baby tooth develops decay, it absolutely must be treated. Baby teeth aren’t just temporary; they serve as guides for permanent teeth to emerge in the correct position. If left untreated, a decayed baby tooth can cause pain, infection, and inflammation. This can negatively impact jaw development and damage permanent teeth. Furthermore, infected baby teeth negatively impact a child’s nutrition and overall health. If tooth decay is detected early, it can be treated with a filling; in more advanced cases, root canal treatment may be necessary. We ensure children’s dental health with early diagnosis and painless treatment methods to protect baby teeth.
Is There a Difference Between a Pedodontist and a Regular Dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a dentist with specialized training in children’s dental health. After graduating from dentistry school, they complete a three-year specialized training in children’s dental development and psychology. This allows them to implement the most appropriate treatment methods based on the child’s age, developmental level, and psychological state. Pedodontists specialize in caries prevention programs, primary teeth treatment, early orthodontic referrals, and the treatment of dental trauma. While regular dentists can also treat pediatric patients, pediatric dentists possess specialized behavioral management techniques for children. We lay the foundation for healthy smiles by providing a safe, comfortable, and fear-free environment where every child can receive treatment.
When Should Children Get Braces?
Braces are generally applied between the ages of 10 and 13, but in some cases, they may be needed earlier. By this age, most of a child’s primary teeth have fallen out and most of their permanent teeth have erupted. This allows for a clear assessment of their teeth alignment and jaw development. However, in some children, if problems such as narrow jaws, crowded teeth, or misaligned jaws are detected early, orthodontic treatment can begin as early as 6-7 years old. Early interventions can prevent the need for more extensive treatments later in life. A pediatric dentist regularly monitors a child’s dental and jaw development to determine the best time for braces. We protect children’s jaw structure through early diagnosis and ensure healthy and proper tooth alignment.
Does the Social Security Institution (SGK) Cover Pedodontic Services?
The Social Security Institution (SGK) covers some basic pedodontic services for children under certain conditions. Basic procedures such as simple fillings, extractions, and teeth cleanings performed in public hospitals or at dental clinics affiliated with the SGK are available free of charge or at a reduced cost. However, aesthetic procedures, fissure sealants, fluoride treatments, or procedures using special filling materials performed in private clinics are not covered by the SGK. Pedodontic procedures performed under sedation, laser, or anesthesia are generally planned individually and are considered specialized services. By contacting us for a quote, you can learn about affordable treatment options for 2025 for procedures not covered by the SGK and make the most appropriate plan for your child.
Is Fluoride Application Harmful?
Fluoride application, when administered professionally and at the correct dosage, is completely harmless. On the contrary, it is one of the most effective methods for strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities. Fluoride forms a protective layer on the tooth surface, increasing its resistance to acids. This significantly helps prevent early-onset tooth decay in children. While excessive fluoride intake can be harmful, the doses administered by dentists are completely safe. The application is usually performed twice a year and only takes a few minutes. Because it is applied with special flavored gels or varnishes for children, it is not uncomfortable. We plan fluoride application according to each child’s age, tooth structure, and risk of decay, ensuring safe and effective results.