Children may not always be cooperative or patient during a dental exam. That’s why family dentists mostly face a challenge while examining these small adults. However, a pediatric dentist may be in a better position to examine and deal with children without making them feel uncomfortable.

Why you should take your child to a pediatric dentist?

You should take your child to a pediatric dentist for the simple reason that they are specialists in pediatric dentistry and know how to treat your child’s unique dental needs.

A pediatric dentist completes a 2 to 3 years of specialty after finishing dental school. Their dental practice is highly specialized as it limits to treating the oral health needs of children of all age groups (infants, children and teens).

Below is an infographic from Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry that lists down the differences between a pediatric dentist and a regular dentist.

Choosing a dentist for your child can be a hard and confusing decision. That’s why we’ve outlined a few reasons why you should choose a pediatric dentist for your child:

1. They undergo special training

Pediatric dentists undergo 2-3 years of postdoctoral special training that deals with child psychology, behavior modification, and pharmacology. They also go through training and certifications to stay abreast of the latest developments in technology and patient care.

2. They offer a safe and fun environment

Pediatric dentists want their little patients to feel comfortable when they walk in for a dental visit. That’s why they put a lot of thought when designing their dental office to create an environment that safe and fun for the child.

3. They are sensitive to special healthcare needs

If your child needs special attention or procedures, you should take your child to a pediatric dentist. They are trained to treat children with special healthcare needs.

4. They educate parents and child on kids’ dental care

Pediatric dentists educate the children and their parents about the kids’ dental care, good dental habits, the treatments and procedures involved in a simple easy to understand language.

5. They provide comprehensive oral health care

A pediatric dentist performs comprehensive oral health care that may include as follows:

• Child’s first oral health exam that may include risk assessment in mother and child for caries.
• Parent and child habit counseling. For example, counseling on the use of pacifier and thumb sucking.
• Early evaluation and treatment of the mouth. It may include straightening teeth and correcting an improper bite.
• Preventive dental care visits, including diet recommendations, nutrition, teeth cleaning, brushing techniques, fluoride treatments.
• Diagnosis of dental conditions associated with diseases such as congenital heart defect, asthma, hay fever, diabetes, and hyperactivity/ attention deficit disorder
• Treat tooth cavities. Remove decay from the tooth and replace it with a dental fillings. Also, provide tips to prevent cavities in children.
• Gum disease management that includes ulcers, short frenulae, mucoceles, and pediatric periodontal disease
• Kids’ dental care for dental injuries, that may include fractured, knocked-out, or displaced teeth.

Establishing a dentist-child bond is essential to make your child feel comfortable during a dental exam and during the subsequent pediatric dental visits. A pediatric dentist can give that comfort to your child.

Dr. Long suggests you bring your child to the pediatric dentist as soon as you see the first tooth emerge. Our kids’ dentist in Fresno, CA welcomes children of all ages. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.

Scott Spencer