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).  Some pediatric dentists (pedodontists) opt to specialize in oral care for children with special needs, specifically children with autism, varying levels of mental retardation, or cerebral palsy.

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 Does a Pediatric Dentist Do?

Pediatric dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to the child’s overall oral health and hygiene.  They 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 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.

If you have questions or concerns about pediatric dentistry, please contact our office.

Testimonials.

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Testimonials

Professional and clean practice with caring doctors and friendly team at Kahala Smile Professionals. They take time to review treatment plans and options until your happy with any decision. They look out for the interest of the patient!

I'm so grateful for Dr. Candace and Robert Wada. I switched to their services after sustaining injury to my face in 2018. After 8hrs in the emergency room, I was sent on my way with a few missing teeth. My dentist was out of town, and a friend referred me to Dr. Wada. My accident and injury was traumatizing enough. Having my teeth repaired the same day by such kind people made a major difference in my recovery.

I love Kahala Smile Professionals!!

Rhonda J

Caring, knowledgeable, using cutting edge technology and professional dentists. Over the past several years, everyone in this office from the receptionists, to the dental hygienists and dentists, care about my over all well being and oral health. From the moment you walk in they've continued to make me feel like family, because they care about my over all health, by remembering me and my needs. Recommending healthy food, flossing and brushing at least twice a day has helped me to not have a cavity for several years. Also Dr. Robert recently made me a mouth piece that I can't sleep with out. He made an excellent fit. The office is very clean, efficient and everyone takes precautions to help me feel safe. With my extremely busy lifestyle, I appreciate the reminders before appointments. I give my highest recommendation of these Dentists.

Jasmine M.

I recently moved here from the mainland and was looking for a Dentist. Upon some research online, I decided on Dr. Candace Wada. My first visit was such a amazing experience, that I actually held off write a review because, I had a second visit soon after and I wanted to see if the service and experience was consistent. Now that I have visited Dr. Wada twice, I can genuine say that this is the best Dental practice that I have ever been to yet. Not only is the staff here extremely pleasant to deal with but they are very helpful with booking the appointments all the way through with follow-ups. Dr. Wada was very knowledgeable, experience and dedicated to her patient. She educate her patient and explains the procedures to them in simple terms, so that her patients fully understands. I never felt pressured during my whole experience and was very appreciative of Dr. Wada recommendations. I am truly happy that I found Dr. Wada and all the professional staff at Kahala Smile Professionals. Keep up the great work!

J. L.

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