Pediatric dentistry, or pedodontics, is a specialization recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) that focuses on treating oral healthcare problems found in young patients (i.e., infants, children, and teenagers). At Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry, we are pleased to carry on the art form of improving these growing and developing smiles, so they will continue to thrive once they reach adulthood. But did you know that this unique specialty has only been around since the early 1900s? Keep reading to learn how it all began and why you should schedule your child’s next appointment with a pediatric dentist.
The Historic Timeline of Pediatric Dentistry
While dentistry has been around since 5000 B.C., the field of pediatric oral healthcare is a more recent development. Starting in the early 20th century with the unveiling of the first oral hygiene school in 1913, women from the Fones Clinic for Dental Hygienists in Connecticut visited area schools to clean children’s teeth.
It was around the same time that Minnie Evangeline Jordon, a dental assistant in California, started a dental practice that offered services solely to children – the first of its kind. Thanks to the research she performed while in college on how foods and sugars impact young teeth, she decided it was time for kids to have a place that focused on their oral healthcare needs.
The field began to rapidly take shape over the next several decades in various ways:
- The ADA officially recognized pediatric dentistry as a new specialty in the 1940s. As a result, more than 50% of children began seeing a dentist each year.
- By the early-mid 1990s, the ADA pushed through the idea of kids receiving comprehensive oral healthcare before they reach the age of one.
- In the present time, pediatric dentistry is available to anyone 19 years of age and younger. Now, more than 86% of kids visit the dentist at least once per year.
Why Your Child Should See a Pediatric Dentist
At Smile University Pediatric Dentistry, we strongly believe that all children should see a pediatric dentist because of the care and attention that is provided. While general dentists can perform regular checkups and cleanings, fluoride treatment, dental sealants, and more, those specializing in pediatric dentistry possess years of experience and advanced training solely focused on the development and growth associated with children’s orofacial structure.
A pediatric dentist must complete dental school as well as additional years in a residency program that focuses on dentistry for infants, children, teenagers, and children with intellectual and physical disabilities (special needs).
By choosing to have your child visit a pediatric dentist, you can remain confident that the professionals taking care of their smile fully understand the complexities of what is happening inside their mouth and how to improve it.
About the Author
Dr. Adam Goodwin is a board-certified pediatric dentist who earned his dental degree from Georgia Health Sciences University before completing a two-year pediatric specialty training. As one of the three dentists at Smiles University Pediatric Dentistry, he is pleased to provide an array of child-friendly services. Visit our website or call (512) 400-3280 to learn how we can help your little one enjoy life with a healthier, happier smile.