Pediatric dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to the childs 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.
EducationPediatric 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 childs 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.
We know there's nothing in the world that gives parents more joy thanseeing a warm smile spread across their children's faces.We want your kids to have everything in the world to smileabout - unabashed, confident, and beautiful.AtTra Le, we have the passion, dedication, commitmentand knowledge to make that happen.
Dr. Tra Le, D.D.S. is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Chemistry at the University of the Pacific and her dental degree from UCLA School of Dentistry. Following dental school, she completed a hospital general dentistry residency at UCSF-Fresno University Medical Center. She went on to complete a residency in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Southern California with additional training at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center exclusively in pediatric hospital dentistry. Dr. Le is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor at the USC School of Dentistry and is a member of the Craniofacial Team at CHOC (Childrens Hospital of Orange County).
Because of their extensive medical needs, she co-ordinates her work, with that of their physicians, according to their unique needs. She also cares for young children at CHOC, St. Joseph's and Tustin Medical, where she is on staff.
Pediatric dentistry 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.