Pediatric dentists care for the dental and emotional needs of children By Dr. Steven P. Stern There's nothing as endearing as your child's smile, but how do you keep that smile healthy?Well, a visit to a pediatric dentist would be a good start. Why use a pediatric dentist? The pediatricians of dentistry,pediatric dentists have expertise in both dentistry and child psychology.Because they receive specialty certification by completing a residency program following four years of dental school, they know how to handle the special needs - both dental and emotional - of young children and adolescents. An early visit to a pediatric dentist can be the first step in your child's lifelong positive attitude about dental health. Children often feel more comfortable and secure when they are in a kid-friendly environment that has been created specifically for them. When should my child visit the dentist for the first time? A child's first visit should be prior to his or her second birthday.This way the dentist and parents can work together to establish good oral hygiene and dietary habits early on. What happens at the first appointment? At this appointment, the dentist will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and discuss good eating and drinking habits so that dental decay can be prevented.The dentist will also discuss whether fluoride supplementation is necessary, a decision usually determined by the presence of fluoride in your community's drinking water. Also during this visit, an analysis of the child's bite can determine if any of the child's oral habits will potentially cause future orthodontic problems. Often, orthodontic problems, just like cavities, can be prevented. How does the dentist accomplish what needs to be done at the first visit? A very young child will often be examined while sitting on a parent's lap, although some will gladly sit on the"big chair"while mom or dad sits nearby.The dentist will calmly show the"tooth counter" and"magic mirror"before using these instruments to examine the teeth and oral structures. Sometimes the teeth will be cleaned at this first visit; however, if necessary, the cleaning is deferred to a later visit when the child is ready.At the end of the visit, the child is rewarded with a brand new toothbrush, toothpaste, and a "goody bag." Why else would I need to visit a pediatric dentist? Pediatric dentists also diagnose and treat dental injuries such as fractured, displaced or loosened teeth, resulting from accidents on the playground or in the home. Proper and immediate treatment of these injuries can often prevent children from losing these teeth prematurely. Dr. Steven P. Stern, Specialty Permit No. 2451, would be happy to help your child achieve a healthy smile. In honor of Dental Health Month, Dr. Stern is offering a complimentary examination for all new patients who are under the age of 3.The office is located at 224 Taylors Mills Road in the Atrium Medical Arts Building in Manalapan.Call (732) 409-0044 to schedule an appointment or to discuss concerns or questions you may have about your child's oral health.