Book excerpt: This is a revised and updated A to Z guide to pediatric dentistry that defines the different management requirements of children at different stages of development. Material is presented within the context of four developmental stages : conception to age three, primary dentition years -- age three to six, transitional years from six to twelve, and adolescence. This 3rd Edition features three new sections covering dentistry for the child with special circumstances, understanding risk analysis as it effects diagnosis and treatment planning, and anticipatory guidance.