What is a Pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists are experts in the field of children’s dental health. They have extensive training, experience, and knowledge of the special oral care needs of children. Pediatric dentists are not just general dentists with more experience in pediatric patients. They specialize exclusively in providing dental care to infants, children, and adolescents while emphasizing the importance of a preventive approach to oral health – this is helping to stave off future problems that may occur in adulthood. When it comes time for your child’s first visit, Pediatric Dentist will provide you with a thorough assessment that includes diagnostic X-rays and digital panoramic imaging. 

What kind of care will I receive from a Pediatric Dentist?

Pediatric dentists provide comprehensive dental care for children and adolescents from infancy through their teen years with an emphasis on preventive and restorative dental services. They are not just general dentists with more experience in children. They specialize exclusively in providing dental care to children and adolescents with a preventive approach to oral health.

What is the best way to schedule my child’s first visit?

You can request an appointment at any age! Most pediatric dentists recommend that you bring your child in for their first dental visit shortly after they have their first tooth erupt. This can happen any time after the age of six months, but typically it happens when your child is closer to one year of age. As a general rule of thumb, the earlier your child makes his/her first dental visit, the better, as long as it does not cause an excessive amount of apprehension for your child.

Are there different kinds of Pediatric Dentists?

There are two types of pediatric dentists: general pediatric dentists and specialists. General pediatric dentists treat patients who have the full range of oral health needs, while specialists focus on a single area, e.g., orthodontics (braces), oral surgery (teeth pulled), or endodontics (root canals).

Is there a difference between a regular pediatric dentist and an oral surgeon?

General pediatric dentists are general dental specialists that treat young children and adolescents from infancy through adulthood. General pediatric dentists may or may not have residencies in oral surgery, oral pathology, orthodontics, periodontics (gum surgery), or endodontics. 

Oral surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in the treatment of patients with cancer of the mouth; diseases involving the gums (e.g., gum disease); serious and complex oral trauma; infections; defects in primary teeth (tooth sockets); and other special conditions.

Are dentists the only professionals who can provide dental care to children?

No. Other Kids Dentist specialists include pediatric dental hygienists and pediatric oral surgeons. General dentists may work with these professionals to help provide the best possible care for their child’s needs.

Do I have to find a pediatric dentist who is associated with a regular dentist?

Not necessarily, although it makes sense for both dentist/s to be aware of each other’s treatments so that they can be coordinated to prevent unnecessary treatment. Some general dentists will take on the role of coordinating general and pediatric dental treatments in one setting, while other clinics specialize in both types of care under separate but equal departments.

Conclusion

Pediatric dentists are experts in the field of children’s dental health. They have extensive training, experience, and knowledge of the special oral care needs of children. Pediatric Dentist will provide you with a thorough assessment that includes diagnostic X-rays and digital panoramic imaging. Pediatric Dentist will also be able to provide you with a treatment plan that addresses any dental problems your child might have in a timely, comfortable, and sensitive manner. Pediatric Dentist offices are frequently equipped with fun distractions to help entertain children while they are treated.