Fifty years of progress in paediatric dentistry

Progress in paediatric dentistry over the last half a century has been evident across all areas of the speciality. This article highlights significant changes in the diagnosis, prevention and management of dental caries, traumatic dental injuries, developmental enamel defects, tooth erosion, dental fear and anxiety and safeguarding children. The dedication of clinicians and researchers along with advances in material science and technology have supported this progress. We discuss the importance of working with those both within and outside of the specialty in order to collaborate to improve children’s oral health. There have been significant strides in the provision of child-centred holistic care and research. Reviewing the advancements made over this period has set a high precedent for making further progress within paediatric dentistry over the next 50 years.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Knowledge of key advances in the field of paediatric dentistry will facilitate good diagnosis and treatment of younger patients.