Pediatric Dentistry

• A child’s primary teeth usually begin to erupt between 5 and 7 months of age, with the full set typically completed by the age of 2. The transition to permanent teeth usually begins around the age of 6.
• Children have 20 primary teeth, 10 in each jaw.
• At around 6 years of age, the first permanent molars erupt behind the primary teeth.
• The replacement of primary teeth with permanent teeth is generally completed by approximately 12 years of age.

Prevention

To help keep your child’s teeth strong and healthy, it is important to follow these guidelines:

1. Breastfeeding is recommended for as long as possible, ideally up to two years of age.
2. Monitor your child’s physical and skeletal development and ensure that developmental milestones such as standing and walking occur at the appropriate age, in consultation with your pediatrician.
3. Ensure that your child’s diet includes natural sources of essential vitamins and minerals, such as milk, eggs, fresh vegetables, and fruits.
4. Limit sweets, soft drinks, and snacks to no more than once a day.
5. Avoid giving medications unless prescribed or recommended under appropriate medical supervision.
6. Begin brushing your child’s teeth from the age of two under the mother’s or caregiver’s supervision, particularly before bedtime.

Treatment

Your child’s teeth should be examined regularly by a dentist every six months, starting from the age of two.

What is monitored during regular dental visits?

1. The timely eruption and replacement of teeth to help prevent future problems with dental alignment and spacing.
2. Professional fluoride application every six months, when indicated, to strengthen the teeth and increase their resistance to decay.
3. Prompt treatment of any tooth decay or enamel defects as soon as they are detected.
4. Application of modern pit and fissure sealants to protect the grooves and pits of the teeth from decay.
5. If swelling of the jaw or severe dental pain occurs, appropriate treatment may include root canal treatment of the affected tooth or molar, together with any necessary medication prescribed by the dentist.

Beyond Childhood… Into Adulthood

The permanent dentition is generally complete by the age of 16–18, with up to 32 teeth in total, including wisdom teeth: 16 in each jaw and 8 on each side.

Prevention

1. Brush your teeth after every meal, particularly after dinner and before bedtime.
2. Ask your dentist to review your brushing technique regularly to ensure that you are cleaning your teeth effectively.
3. Using a miswak (siwak) can be a simple and effective way to support oral hygiene. Its natural components have antibacterial properties, and it may be used as part of a regular oral hygiene routine.
4. If brushing is temporarily not possible, rinsing the mouth thoroughly with water can help remove food debris until you are able to brush your teeth.
5. Avoid eating between meals, particularly sugary foods and sweets.
6. Make sure your daily diet includes adequate sources of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly fresh vegetables, leafy greens, and fruits.

• Have a routine dental examination every six months, or sooner if you experience any pain or unusual symptoms.
• Avoid smoking and refrain from using over-the-counter or home teeth-whitening products without consulting your dentist.