PEDIATRIC DENTIST VS REGULAR DENTIST

Is it about time for your child to visit the dentist and you are not sure what kind of dentist would be the best for them? There are many things to consider when deciding upon a good dentist for your child. Despite what many adult Americans believe, starting good oral health habits at a young age and maintaining the health of baby teeth are critically important to the lifelong oral health of a child. So how do you pick a good dentist for your child who helps prevent tooth decay, educates your child on good oral hygiene, and always makes your child comfortable? Below is more information on the difference between a pediatric dentist and a regular dentist to help you think through what would be the best fit for YOUR child.

Family Dentistry

A regular dentist in a family dentistry is a dentist who provides a range of services and treatments to patients of all ages. Usually, they graduate from a general dentistry program, which does have some coursework and training in pediatric dentistry techniques. Depending on your regular family dentist, they may see many children as patients, or they may not see too many. Regular dentists have a general mission focused on preventative oral health care and providing services such as regular exams and cleanings to help avoid tooth decay and gum disease.

Pediatric Dentistry

Just like a regular dentist, pediatric dentists mobile alabama attend a four-year dental school. However, they also receive two to three additional years of specialized training in pediatric dentistry after graduating from dental school. This additional training is focused on techniques to care for children and treat their unique dental needs. Additionally, pediatric dentists receive training to treat children with special needs or behavioral issues who may need specialized care. A pediatric dentist office is usually child focused with a waiting room that is geared towards making their young patients comfortable and relaxed with toys, books, or a play area. Additionally, they may have exam rooms that are more kid-friendly with bright colors, fun artwork, and smaller tools.

Choosing between a pediatric dentist and a regular dentist

There are advantages to both pediatric dentists and regular dentists in a family practice. So how do you choose?

Benefits of a family dentist:

  • Everyone in your family can visit the same dentist.
  • They are in a family dentistry because they like typically like treating patients of all ages, including kids.
  • They may provide multiple specialties in one family dentistry practice.

Benefits of a pediatric dentist:

  • They have completed additional training and specialize in treating children.
  • They only treat children and therefore are very experienced treating kids.
  • Their dental office will likely be a fun environment that your child may enjoy.
  • They have expertise and knowledge in preventative oral care for kids.

Making the Final Decision

If you have a family dentist you really like and are not sure if you want to have your child visit a specialized pediatric dentist, the best thing you can schedule a consultation and start with a meet and greet and a conversation. This may help you decide what is the best fit for your child and your family.

More on Pediatric Dentistry :  Age of First Dental Visit