Children throughout the country visit a pediatric dentist twice a year to keep their smiles healthy. Although you can find countless pediatric dental practices, it wasn’t always an area of specialty. The history of children’s dentistry dates back to 5000 B.C., but pediatric care didn’t emerge until the 1900s. Over the decades, pediatric services have evolved significantly. Here’s how it has changed throughout time to nurture the health and development of young smiles.
First Focus on Pediatric Dental Services
In 1913, Dr. Alfred C. Jones opened the first oral hygiene school to focus on cleaning children’s teeth. At the same time, Minnie Evangeline Jordon, a dental assistant, was creating her own dental practice for children. It was the first practice of its kind, which was sparked by a research project she was involved with in college regarding the effects of sugar on children’s teeth. She was committed to doing something about the damage sugar was causing.
Pediatric Dentistry Earns National Recognition
It wasn’t until the 1940s that the American Dental Association was recognized as a specialty. This raised awareness about the importance of early dental care for children. As a result, dental offices saw a 50% increase in children going to the dentist every year. The Pediatric Dentistry Training Program was founded a decade later to support the number of dentists trained in pediatric services.
Importance of Children’s Oral Health on the Rise
By the late 1990s, the Secretary of Health and Human Services provided a national report featuring details that support the role a child’s oral health plays in their general health and development. As a result, the American Dental Association added their support, recommending children see their dentist before their first birthday for a cleaning and checkup.
Modern Pediatric Dentistry
Today, pediatric dentistry covers a scope of services for patients 19 years and younger. More accessible dental care allows over 86% of children to visit their dentist at least once per year. Early dental care allows a pediatric dentist to earn your child’s trust for tear-free appointments. Their dentist will monitor their oral health and development to detect the slightest concerns early. Any issues will be addressed quickly to prevent invasive, lengthy, or costly procedures later. Your child will also learn the importance of oral hygiene and regular dental care, which are habits they are more likely to continue as adults.
A pediatric dentist will be by your child’s side as they grow to help them achieve their best smile. If you’re ready to give your child the best dental care possible, it’s time to make the switch to a pediatric dentist.
About Dr. Asim Awan
Dr. Awan achieved his dental degree at the University of Illinois College of Dentistry and continued his education in oral surgery and general dentistry. He focused his training on pediatric dentistry, providing compassionate dental care for young smiles. If you need a pediatric dentist you and your child can trust, contact our office today to request an appointment.