As soon as your child starts cutting their first teeth or is at least six months old (whichever comes first), it\u2019s a good idea to start looking for a trustworthy pediatric dentist who can see your child and answer your questions about their dental health. If you\u2019re a new parent or have recently moved to a new area, you may feel overwhelmed with options and unsure about what to look for in a new dentist. Here are some guidelines to help you research pediatric dentists in your area and narrow down your options to find a dentist you trust to take care of your kid\u2019s dental health.<\/p>\n
A pediatric dentist is a dentist who specializes in treating patients from birth through adolescence. Yes, even your older kids and teenagers can see a pediatric dentist! Especially if your child has anxiety about dentist visits, it may be beneficial for them to see a pediatric dentist through their teen years.<\/p>\n
Good pediatric dentists have not only the schooling and qualifications of a normal dentist, but also complete additional education specifically related to treating children. It\u2019s completely possible and legal for regular qualified dentists to see young patients, but most parents find that working with a dentist with training and experience in patients under 18 puts their mind at ease and gives their kids a better experience. If you aren\u2019t sure about a dentist\u2019s qualifications, call their office to ask about their education specifically related to pediatrics\u2014pediatric dentists generally have about 2-3 years of additional training beyond dental school.<\/p>\n
Since a person\u2019s dental health is not only important for their teeth, but also their overall health (poor oral hygiene has been connected to conditions like heart disease), it\u2019s crucial to set your children up for regular dental visits throughout their life. Since they\u2019re much more likely to continue good dental habits if they have a good experience at the dentist, choosing a pediatric dentist who can put them at ease is important.<\/p>\n
Building a relationship with a pediatric dentist your child trusts also makes it easier to visit in the event of a dental emergency<\/a> without the added stress of visiting a dental office you don\u2019t know anything about. <\/p>\n Pediatric dentists are used to handling nervous questions from adults and children alike, so talking with the dentist you\u2019re considering prior to your child\u2019s first cleaning can help you gauge their engagement with you and your child. It\u2019s totally normal to feel nervous as a parent bringing your child to the dentist for the first time, and pediatric dentists are patient and open to answering any questions that can help put you at ease.<\/p>\n From questions about dental insurance plans they accept to walking parents through what to expect from their child\u2019s dental visit, a good pediatric dentist is happy to engage with you and give you what you need to feel comfortable. If the dentist you\u2019re considering seems averse to answering questions and sitting down to talk through your concerns, they may not be the right fit for you and your child.<\/p>\n Some adults even experience anxiety about going to dental visits, so it\u2019s no surprise that children can be especially worried or scared, especially if they don\u2019t know what to expect. Pediatric dentists are trained in dealing with the heightened emotions children experience at the dentist, so ask them how they handle children who are worried or upset during their visit! Most dentists have protocols to explain dental procedures and equipment in an unintimidating way so that kids know that what happens at their visit is normal, even if it\u2019s something new to them.<\/p>\nFind a helpful dentist willing to answer your questions<\/h2>\n
Ask how they handle anxiety and fear of dental work in children<\/h2>\n
Dental care for children with special needs<\/h3>\n