PEDODONTICS

also spelled Paedodontics, dental specialty that deals with the care of children's teeth. The pedodontist is extensively concerned with prevention, which includes instruction in proper diet, use of fluoride, and practice of oral hygiene. The pedodontist's routine practice deals basically with caries (tooth decay) but includes influencing tooth alignment. Lengthy treatment may be required to correct incipient abnormalities in tooth position. Braces or other correctional devices may be used. The pedodontist needs patience and a basic knowledge of children's behavioral patterns, as well as a knowledge of the effects on the mouth of physical and mental diseases. In the United States a two-year postgraduate course leads to a certificate in pedodontics.