When it comes to dental care, it’s not uncommon for all the members of a family to see the same general dentist. But just as a pediatrician focuses on treating childhood injuries and illnesses, pediatric dentists are specifically trained to treat pediatric dental issues.
Pediatric dentists receive the same training as a general dentist. After earning a four-year bachelor’s degree, pediatric dentists attend a four-year dental school, followed by a two-year residency in pediatric dental practice. And like general practitioners, pediatric dentists are board-certified.
Why Use a Pediatric Dentist?
Even for adults, going to the dentist can be scary. Between the strange sounds and smells and their own experiences with dental pain, it’s not surprising that patients will try to defer dental visits.
For children, this fear can be especially acute. But with the proper approach, your child can develop a very positive association with their dental visits. That’s why it’s worth considering a pediatric dental practice that truly understands the importance of establishing a strong bond between patient and dentist from an early age.
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of pediatric dentistry:
Warm and Welcoming
Unlike general practices, which can sometimes be cold and unwelcoming, pediatric dental practices create a positive environment from the moment your child walks through the door. Vibrant colors, whimsical designs, and toys and magazines designed for children help to make the dentist’s office a much less scary place.
A Focus on Children
The staff members at a pediatric dental practice know what it takes to make children comfortable. From the first warm greeting until the moment you head home, the staff’s goal is to put your child at ease. They know that being at the dentist can be frightening, and they’ll do anything in their power to ease those fears.
This is especially useful when your child is in the dentist’s chair. When a patient starts to feel overwhelmed, the staff has the training they need to help soothe your child.
Primary Tooth Care
Yes, your child’s primary teeth will fall out eventually, and adult teeth will grow in their place. But that doesn’t mean that tooth pain or cavities in primary teeth are any less significant. A pediatric dentist knows how to deal with these teeth, which have much thinner enamel and require more care.
Making Oral Care Fun
By the time you’re an adult, brushing and flossing should be an ingrained habit. But it can be hard to convince kids that oral health should be an important part of their daily routine. The staff at a pediatric dental practice can make oral health fun. Pediatric dentists have a number of ways to keep kids excited about establishing good oral hygiene routines. And since pediatric dentists focus on working with children, building an easy rapport with their young patients becomes second nature.
It’s important to start bringing your children to the dentist early. When you emphasize oral health at a young age, it becomes a habit that sticks with them. Contact San Diego Children’s Dentistry today, and let us help you make your child’s smile bright and beautiful.
