A Pediatric Dentist has an extra two-to-three years of specialized training after dental school, and is dedicated to the oral health of children from infancy through the teenage years. This includes an emphasis on the psychology of working with different age groups, and situations unique to children. This training includes practical training during a two-year residency in a pediatric dental setting.

A Board Certified Pediatric Dentist  has been certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, increasing the expectations to include a series of oral, written, and clinical examinations, as well as 125 hours of continuing education every five years. 

Occasionally people may come across a “kids dentist” or “family dentist”, which are colloquial terms used by general practitioners that have not completed the rigorous training to earn the certification required to be designated as a true, pediatric dentist.

When looking for a toothpaste for your child, make sure to choose one that is recommended by the American Dental Association, as shown on the box and tube. These toothpastes have undergone testing to ensure they are safe to use.

Use only a smear of toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) to brush the teeth of a child less than 3 years of age. For children 3-to-6 years old, use a "pea-size" amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Children under the age of 8 do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively on their own. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.

In reality, the mechanical process of brushing is more important than the toothpaste utilized. Learn more tips on how to brush your child’s teeth effectively.

Radiographs (X-Rays) are a vital and necessary part of your child’s dental diagnostic process. Radiographs help detect cavities, survey erupting teeth, diagnose bone diseases, evaluate the results of an injury, or aid in planning orthodontic treatment. If dental problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable for your child and more affordable for you.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends radiographs and examinations every six months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. On average, most pediatric dentists require radiographs once a year and incorporate the procedure into your child’s regular exam schedule. Approximately every 3 years, it is a good idea to obtain a complete set of radiographs, either a panoramic and bitewings or periapicals and bitewings.

Pediatric dentists are particularly careful to minimize the exposure of their patients to radiation. With contemporary safeguards, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small and the risk is negligible. In fact, the dental radiographs represent a far smaller risk than an undetected and untreated dental problem. Today’s equipment filters out unnecessary x-rays and restricts the x-ray beam to the area of interest. High-speed film and proper shielding assure that your child receives a minimal amount of radiation exposure.

Sometimes it may be recommended to use sedation, which is a process using medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. This ensures the environment is calm enough to allow Dr. Vaughn to provide safe and effective treatment. Usually sedation is only recommended for children in the following circumstances:

• The child is receiving a major dental procedure.
• The child suffers from high levels of anxiety.
• The child has a strong gag reflex.
• The child has a special need or medical condition.

There are three types of sedation that may be recommended: nitrous oxide inhalation, oral sedation, and IV sedation. Each method of usage is recommended based upon a patient’s individual circumstances. For children who are older and experience mild dental anxiety, conscious sedation may be an option with nitrous oxide (N20-02) inhalation or through oral medication. In cases where a child is unable to cooperate during dental treatment due to their age or maturity level, or because of a major dental procedure, our practice may utilize IV sedation.

Vaughn Pediatric Dentistry will not prescribe or use any form of sedation without first consulting with a patient’s legal parent or guardian.