Tustin Pediatric Dentist - Childrens' Dentistry

Pediatric Dentist Tustin CA

Over the past 2 decades, Dr. Arthur Parkins has established himself as one of the leading pediatric dental providers in Tustin, California and the surrounding cities. His goal is to teach and encourage your children on how to develop good dental hygiene habits that will lead them to have a beautiful, healthy set of adult teeth.

While most Tustin dentists refer younger children to local pediatric dentists, Dr. Parkins is equipped to treat your child's dental issues directly in our Tustin dental office.  By being able to also specialize in pedodontics, we provide a true family practice.

What is Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry (formerly Pedodontics/Paedodontics) primarily focuses on children from birth through adolescence.  The American Dental Association (ADA), recognizes pediatric dentistry as a specialty and therefore requires dentists to undertake two or three years of additional training after completing a general dentistry degree.  At the end of this training, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry issues a unique diploma (Diplomate ABPD). 

Understanding Child Psychology at Our Tustin Dentist Office

One of the most important components of pediatric dentistry is child psychology.  Pediatric dentists are trained to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children, and always avoid threatening words like “drill,” “needle,” and “injection.”  Dental phobias beginning in childhood often continue into adulthood, so it is of paramount importance that children have positive experiences and find their “dental home” as early as possible. 

What Our Pediatric Dentist Will Do for Your Children

Our Pediatric dentist fulfills many important functions pertaining to the child’s overall oral health and hygiene.  We place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth. 

Other important Pediatric functions include:

Education

Pediatric dentists educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology, thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy.  In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine. 

Monitoring growth

By continuously tracking growth and development, pediatric dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image. 

Prevention

Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay.  In addition to providing check-ups and dental cleanings, pediatric dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb-sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing. 

Intervention

In some cases, pediatric dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents.  In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.

Learn More About Our Tustin Pediatric Dentistry

Call Us Today or simply Request an Appointment Online to learn more about our Pediatric Dentistry in Tustin.

 


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