Dentistry for children is perhaps the most needed, and yet very often the most neglected of all services performed by the dentist. The value of this service cannot be exaggerated, for inadequate or unsatisfactory dental treatment during childhood may damage permanently, the entire masticatory apparatus, leaving the individual with many of the dental problems so common in todays adult population. Therefore, in Dentistry for Children, one is dealing mainly with 'prevention'.

Normal Teeth

ERUPTION DATES : The primary teeth consist of 20 teeth {4 incisors, 2 canines and 4 molars in each arch}. The eruption sequence in the primary dentition usually follows a definite pattern. Central incisors erupt first, followed by lateral incisors, first molars, canines and 2nd molars.

     The upper (maxillary) central incisors erupt at 6 months of age, then the lower (mandibular) lateral incisors at 7-8 months, then the upper lateral incisors at 8-9 months. At about 1 year, the first primary molars appear, followed by primary canines at 16 months. 2nd primary molars erupt at 2 years.
     There may be a little variation in the time of eruption of these teeth ; it usually doesn't signify any abnormality in the eruption.
     At around 6 years of age, the child's lower first permanent molars erupt. Along with it the permanent central incisors may also come in.

     Variations from these factors coupled with discrepancies in tooth and jaw size and also heredity may be factors in producing certain types of Malocclusion.

ORAL HYGIENE PROCEDURES : Brushing is necessary to remove the sticky plaque & debris that collect around the tooth surfaces. Brushing twice a day is usually recommended. Children in particular must be taught to brush & constantly supervised, for their techniques are often ineffective.
     Circular strokes on the outer surfaces of the upper & lower teeth, back & forth strokes for the inner surfaces & the chewing surfaces of teeth is usual technique.

     Normal brushing only cleans 3 out of 5 surfaces of your teeth. The remaining 2 surfaces (between your teeth), therefore need special attention to avoid build up of plaque food particles. In adult teeth, flossing is the additional cleaning aid used. Because tooth decay and gum disease often start in these areas, you need to use dental floss everyday.

Brushing	Floss

     In patients where the spaces in between teeth becomes wider (either due to gum disease or age) interdental brushes or proxa brushes may be used. Here a floss may not be as effective as this brush.

     In conclusion, it is recommended that 2 visits may be made to the dentist in a year for routine checkups & cleaning. This should ensure good health of your teeth & gums for many years. Do your teeth justice, help them to serve you better.

Last updated on 10-11-2000

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