It has oftentimes been said that the Olathe, KS pediatric dentist is dedicated to saving our younger generation one tooth at a time. Although this sounds like a bit of stretch, the reality is that this is exactly what a pediatric dentist is committed to doing as they serve their younger patients. Where general dentistry is concerned, this member of the healing arts and sciences is dedicated to the maintenance of oral health. Pediatric dentistry, on the other hand, is an area of specialty whose focus is the young child’s oral health.

The Olathe, KS pediatric dentist provides preventative and regular oral health care to children between the ages of infancy and their teenage years. Pediatric dentists have been specially educated and endured an additional two to three years of hands-on experience in order to specialize in this field of dentistry. Their ultimate goal is to satisfy the needs of infants, adolescents, and teens. In some cases, they will provide pediatric dental care to children and young adults who have special needs (e.g. autism, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, etc.).

Regardless of whether we are discussing general or pediatric dentistry, proper oral hygiene is an essential component of a person’s overall health. Granted, consistent dental care is necessary throughout our lives. However, it is the earlier years of a person’s life where it is the most critical. The way in which a child and young adult’s teeth are cared for in their early years can have a positive or negative impact on their oral health in the future. When there are potential problems early on, steps can be taken to resolve them so they do not grow worse.

Children develop numerous habits, both good and bad, as they progress through the "growth years" of their development. Those bad habits oftentimes include:

• grinding their teeth

• lip biting

• mouth breathing

• nail biting

• thumb sucking

• tongue thrusting

Each one of these habits can cause permanent or temporary damage to a child’s teeth and any structures in the mouth that supports their teeth.

As was mentioned above, the special approaches practiced by an Olathe, KS pediatric dentist plays a significant role in saving our future generations. In reality, it may not be according to the "one-tooth-at-a-time" metaphor spoken of in the opening paragraph. However, the establishment and promotion of confidence and trust between the pediatric dentist and young patients goes a long way where good oral health throughout their lifetime is concerned.