Just like any field, dentistry has its specialists. When choosing a dentist to participate in your child’s dental health, it just makes sense to see a pediatric specialist. Many parents are uncertain if they need to choose a pediatric dentist for their child, or if they should just continue to have them see the dentist the parents have been seeing for years. There are a number of reasons you should choose a pediatric dentist for your child’s oral health.
They Specialize In Children’s Teeth
As is suggested by their specialty, pediatric dentists are particularly well versed in the concerns that are faced by a developing mouth. Cavities and gum problems are concerns shared by everyone, but children are particularly at risk and the consequences of these conditions can be long-lasting. Pediatric dentists have been specially trained to look for these conditions in children, as well as knowing how to ease a nervous child’s fears about seeing the dentist. There’s nothing better than a dentist who’s good with children to help ease little nerves during a visit.
Equipment Suited To The Task
While it’s entirely possible to use normal sized equipment on children, pediatric dental offices have equipment that’s specifically designed for working in smaller mouths. Further, these dentists know how to introduce your children to this equipment in a way that keeps them from becoming afraid. By introducing them this way and explaining their purpose, they help to remove the fear that children can experience during their dental visits.
A Suitable Environment
Children’s dental clinics are designed with their clientele in mind, including special playrooms with toys and cartoons to help distract them while they wait. Even better it is a common practice to have popular cartoons playing while they perform the exam to help keep your child at ease. Afterwards, they reward your child with toys or stickers to help the child be excited about returning again. It also helps to have your child see other children having a positive experience at the dentist’s office, showing them that there’s nothing to fear.
Preventative Care Is Key
While preventative care is central to any dentist’s practice, it is particularly important to those who specialize in pediatric dentistry. During their visit, your children will have the perils of tooth decay explained to them in a positive, child-friendly way and taught how to prevent it from becoming a condition they live with. Additionally, they will be shown how to brush properly, and how to floss so they can take those skills home with them.
Pediatric dentists are an important part of your child’s dental health journey, an introductory period where they learn that dentists don’t have to be scary, and that good oral hygiene is an important part of their life. If you have a child that needs a dentist, whether for their first visit or for continuing care, consider having them see a pediatric specialist, it will set an excellent precedent for their future.
