Pedodontics is a Latin term meaning "children's teeth." A
specialty in dentistry, pedodontics aims to protect and treat
children's oral and dental health, starting with their primary
teeth and continuing through adolescence (approximately ages
0–13), when their permanent teeth appear.
A pediatric dentist is a dentist who, after completing dentistry
school, receives specialized training in a university's
Department of Pedodontics. Pedodontists are specialists who
protect and treat children's oral and dental health, taking into
account their physical and psychological development, and help
them develop healthy habits.
What Treatments Does a Pedodontist Perform?
To help children get used to treatment without developing
fear of the dentist (dental phobia)
Developing personalized protective practices by performing
caries risk analysis
Making suggestions for regulating eating habits
Treatment of milk teeth and permanent teeth caries
Preventive procedures such as fissure sealant and fluoride
application
Treatment of traumatized teeth
Monitoring and guiding jaw and tooth development
Preventive orthodontic treatments (procedures to prevent
crooked teeth)
Oral and dental treatments for children requiring special
attention (disabled individuals, etc.)
Why is Pedodontics Important?
Primary teeth play a critical role not only in nutrition but
also in speech, jaw development, and the proper eruption of
permanent teeth. Therefore, regular dental checkups from an
early age are crucial for preventing cavities and maintaining
oral health.
