Pediatric dentists need pediatric dentistry tools to examine and treat their young patients. A child’s mouth has a simple environment. Basic pediatric dentistry tools can help the dentist perform oral examinations. If you are going to bring your child to a dental exam for the first time, here are the pediatric dentistry tools to expect.
Dental X-rays
This pediatric dentistry tool is important for confirming the child’s dental issue. Pediatric dentists also use a dental X-ray to see the positioning and formation of the emerging adult teeth. The process of conducting a dental X-ray is taking a picture of the child’s teeth. This exam does not hurt. It may even be fun, depending on the appearance of the dental X-ray.
Some machines have a camera that revolves around the child’s head. Others have a camera that stays next to the child’s face before taking dental photos. Dental X-rays show the inner structures of the jaw and teeth. This pediatric dentistry tool can help guide the pediatric dentist in creating a treatment care plan for the child.
Electric toothbrush
Every pediatric dentistry exam includes a thorough dental cleaning. Pediatric dentists use an electric toothbrush to give the young patient a deep cleaning treatment. This pediatric dentistry tool has its own power supply in the console next to the dentist. The pediatric dentist will use a flavored, textured toothpaste with this tool. Rapid brushing can remove the stains and plaque from the child’s teeth. This can be a ticklish process for most kids.
Little mirror
A dentist’s mirror is a handy, round mirror with a long, slender handle. It fits inside the child’s oral cavity, allowing the pediatric dentist to look into every corner, groove, and crevice. This type of pediatric dentistry tool can help spot areas with plaque and cavities. Children often expect this little mirror as part of a dental checkup.
Saliva ejector
Pediatric dentists can find it challenging to conduct a pediatric dentistry exam if saliva always pools in the mouth. That is why there is a saliva ejector. This indispensable tool vacuums saliva during a dental examination. It also vacuums saliva and water during dental cleaning. A saliva ejector makes a suctioning sound and can even tickle when it touches the gums and cheeks.
Tooth counter
This pediatric dentistry tool may look a little scary to children because it has a pointed end. An experienced pediatric dentist always points away the sharp end. This is to prevent the pointed end from injuring the inner lining of the cheeks. It also helps hide the sharp end away from the child’s line of sight.
Dental water jet
Rinsing and flushing is the main purpose of this pediatric dentistry tool. The forceful ejection of water from this tool helps dislodge any particles that should not be in the child’s mouth. It makes the exam and dental cleaning more thorough. A dental water jet works well with the saliva ejector.
With pediatric dentistry tools, a pediatric dentist’s job is easier and more efficient
Children need good oral care. This is possible through effective pediatric dentistry tools in the hands of a good dentist. Familiarizing your child with these tools can help prepare them for their first dental exam. An appointment with your pediatric dentist is the first step to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Request an appointment or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at 845-363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
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