Specialized Dental Care for Children
Pediatric dental care focuses on prevention, early diagnosis, and the healthy development of the teeth and jaws during childhood.
At New England Dental Specialists, care is provided by Dr. Golnaz Movafaghi, a specialist in pediatric dentistry with advanced training in the dental health and development of infants, children, and adolescents.
Her approach emphasizes preventive care, early treatment when needed, and creating a comfortable environment that helps children develop positive dental habits and long-term oral health.
In addition to pediatric care, Dr. Movafaghi also treats adult patients and provides cosmetic dental treatments.
What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist with advanced training in the care of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special healthcare needs.
Following dental school, pediatric dentists complete additional years of specialty training focused on child development, behavior management, preventive care, and the treatment of dental conditions specific to younger patients.
They are uniquely trained to provide age-appropriate care in a comfortable, supportive environment, while monitoring growth and development and addressing both routine and more complex dental needs.
Preventive Pediatric Dental Care
Preventive care plays a central role in maintaining healthy teeth throughout childhood.
Preventive treatments may include:
- routine dental examinations
- professional cleanings
- fluoride treatments
- dental sealants
- oral hygiene education
These measures help reduce the risk of cavities and support long-term dental health.
First Dental Visit
Early dental visits help establish healthy habits and allow monitoring of oral development from a young age. The first dental visit is often recommended within the first year after the eruption of the first tooth.
Early visits allow evaluation of:
- tooth eruption and development
- oral hygiene habits
- feeding practices that may affect dental health
- preventive care strategies
These visits help children become comfortable with dental care while supporting healthy oral development.
Dental Emergencies in Children
Dental injuries and sudden dental pain can occur during childhood, particularly during sports or everyday activities. Prompt evaluation is important to assess the affected teeth and surrounding tissues and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Common pediatric dental emergencies may include:
- tooth fractures
- dental trauma from falls or sports injuries
- toothaches or infection
- displaced or loosened teeth
- swelling or oral discomfort
Timely evaluation helps protect the health of both primary and developing permanent teeth.
Stainless Steel Crowns
When a primary tooth has extensive decay or structural damage, a stainless steel crown may be recommended to restore and protect the tooth.
Stainless steel crowns are durable restorations designed to:
- protect weakened primary teeth
- restore chewing function
- maintain space for developing permanent teeth
Space Maintainers
Primary teeth play an important role in maintaining proper space for permanent teeth. When a primary tooth is lost prematurely, a space maintainer may be recommended to help preserve the space needed for normal eruption of the permanent tooth.
Space maintainers help:
- prevent shifting of adjacent teeth
- maintain proper alignment during dental development
- reduce the risk of future orthodontic problems
Careful monitoring allows timely placement and removal of space maintainers when appropriate.
Pediatric Dental Evaluation
Regular dental visits allow monitoring of oral health and development throughout childhood.
A pediatric dental evaluation may include:
- examination of teeth and gums
- assessment of oral development
- evaluation of oral hygiene
- guidance on preventive care
Early and consistent dental care helps establish a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents. It includes preventive care, early diagnosis, and treatment of dental conditions affecting developing teeth.
Who provides pediatric dental care?
Pediatric dental care in our practice is provided by a specialist in pediatric dentistry with advanced training in the dental care and development of children.
At what age should a child see a pediatric dentist?
The first visit is typically recommended by age one, or within six months of the first tooth eruption.
Why see a pediatric dentist instead of a general dentist?
Pediatric dentists are trained to manage the unique needs of children, including behavior guidance, growth and development, and early prevention of dental disease.
What types of treatment do pediatric dentists provide?
Care may include preventive services, treatment of cavities, management of dental emergencies, early orthodontic evaluation, and guidance on oral habits and development.
Why are early dental visits important for children?
Early dental visits help monitor the growth and development of the teeth and jaws, identify potential concerns at an early stage, and establish healthy oral hygiene habits.
What types of treatments are provided in pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dental care may include preventive treatments, early cavity detection, fluoride treatments, pulpotomy procedures, stainless steel crowns, space maintainers, and other treatments designed to protect developing teeth and support healthy oral development.
How often should children visit the dentist?
Regular dental visits allow dental professionals to monitor oral health, provide preventive care, and detect potential problems early as a child grows.
How can parents help maintain their child’s oral health?
Parents can help maintain their child’s oral health by encouraging good brushing and flossing habits, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring regular dental checkups.