The
changes to the dental field have made oral health less of a scar notion
and more of a blissful haven for proper oral health. Visits for
children and adults alike are much easier thanks to a combination of
advances of dental education, patient care, and technology. For
children and adolescents in particular, dental visits are lauded as
more of a day out than as a punishment to be endured. The changes are
seen in both parents and children alike.
Though
you are an adult now, try thinking back to when your parents took you
to visit the dentist. Chances are not only was it scary, but was
painful regardless of the procedure involved. Thankfully things have
changed a lot in the 21 century so that the treatment offered by modern
dentist alleviates anxiety and stress involved with oral care
appointments. Changes and innovation in pediatric dentistry has been
evidenced first by the surroundings encounter upon arrival to the
office. Several offices are equipped with colorful rooms, themes dental
chambers, theatrically shaped patient chairs and even television sets
ensconced in the ceilings.
Along
with fanciful décor, the advances in treatment have removed the need
for fear when visiting the dentist. Like most dentist, pediatric
dentist believe in maintaining as much of the tooth structure when
performing any type of restoration or procedure. This is known as
pediatric dentistry that is minimally invasive. The materials now used
in fillings such as composite resins that make it possible to remove
only the decay in the tooth, that too in conjunction with lasers which
makes for pain free, fear free visits.
Pain
is easily associated with dentistry; the new trend among most offices
is advertising their services as pain free. If you think about it, the
actual procedure there is no pain, but people fear the pain of the
numbing injection. There is a new tool used in many pediatric offices
that has the ability to block the pain of the injection. The actual
device resembles a toothbrush and is applied to the gum as the
injection is given effectively removing the fear and pain in one swoop.
This is a great advancement not only for pediatric dentistry, but also
a great help for frazzled parents everywhere.
There
are also many other new advancements in the pediatric and general
dental field that offer a range of benefits. Advancements such as:
Diagnosis by laser - This
laser is able to detect cavities and the grooves of teeth without pain
or need for x-rays. This is perfect for smaller children who may not
sit still for long, or those who are fearful of large machinery.
Digital X-ray - This
is the same as a regular scan, with only ten percent of the radiation.
To top it off, the image is stored in a computer which allows for
instant referencing.
Invisible braces - Straight
teeth are not only healthy, but also a part of the social structure
that surround adolescents and pediatric patients. They are often easier
to wear, and are less noticeable than other alignment options.
