Your child’s well-being is your top priority. To ensure they’re healthy, it’s crucial to visit your doctor and pediatric dentist regularly. Dr. Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS, in Honolulu, HI, has been voted the best pediatric dentist in Hawaii since 2009. Below, he and his team explain the role they play in the oral health of little ones. 

Services Offered by a Pediatric Dentist

Infant Exams 

Babies who visit the dentist before their first birthday tend to have fewer cavities and other oral health issues throughout their lives. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Academy of Pediatrics® both recommend children have their first dental exam no later than age one. During the infant exam, the dentist checks for tooth development and reviews hygiene. They’ll discuss how to care for your baby’s teeth and talk about bottle-feeding, breastfeeding, and general dietary habits to ensure your child’s mouth is healthy. 

Preventive & Restorative Treatments 

Preventive dentistry is crucial to lifelong oral health. These services include routine cleanings and oral exams, as well as X-rays, sealants, and fluoride applications. The dentist may also recommend nutritional or habit changes, such as reducing sugar intake or brushing more frequently. Other treatments depend on the child’s individual needs. For instance, a child may require restorative procedures such as fillings, crowns, root canal therapy, or an extraction to restore their oral health. 

Orthodontics 

Many people have misaligned teeth or an improper bite. Pediatric dentists can fix these problems in children and teens using orthodontics. Orthodontic treatments include metal and ceramic braces and Invisalign® aligners. 

Diagnosis of Oral Health Conditions 

Issues such as diabetes, congenital heart defects, hay fever, and asthma can contribute to oral health issues. This can include short frenulum, mucoceles, pediatric periodontal disease, ulcers, and other gum diseases. A pediatric dentist can diagnose and treat these oral health conditions. They may also coordinate with a pediatrician to ensure your child receives comprehensive medical care.

Emergency Dental Care

Whether your child loses an adult tooth playing sports or cracks a tooth eating a hard candy, it’s essential to act fast. A pediatric dentist administers emergency dental care for situations such as fractured, displaced, or knocked-out teeth. Visiting the dentist immediately will reduce your child’s discomfort and lower the risk of further complications. 

If you’re a Hawaii resident searching for a family dentist you can trust, look no further than Dr. Dean T. Sueda, DDS, MS. This respected team is dedicated to their patients, ensuring each child is relaxed and comfortable while receiving the best possible treatment. Call (808) 944-1603 to schedule an appointment today. Or, visit the website to learn more about the team.