Should My Kid See a Pediatric Dentist and Not a General Dentist?
Dr. Alma • April 1, 2021
Many, if not all, parents have had to wonder once their child’s teeth start coming in, which is better, a family dentist or a pediatric dentist? Let’s face it, one of the big drawls for a family dentist is right there in the name. Not only can the whole family get all their oral health care from the same place (and hopefully all in one visit!), but your child can stay at that dentistry even into adulthood if they wanted. However, more parents are coming to realize that seeing a pediatric dentist can benefit you growing child’s future health.
While a general dentist is similar, a family dentist provides a broad range of services for patients of every age. Some of these family dentists may have a specialized area, but many will focus on general issues such as cleanings, eliminating plaque buildup, gum health, reducing tooth decay, and filling cavities. A pediatric dentist, is again, similar, however, these doctors go through an additional two or more years of special training. With this they are more adept at handling children’s behavior, making them feel more at ease in the dentist chair (we know, even as adults, how scary this can be!) while being able treat the more intricate and unique dental cases of small children. They also undergo qualifications to be able to treat children with special needs.
Most of the time pediatric dentary offices are geared around the kids. Play rooms and waiting areas that have fun games and toys for kids to interact with before their visit. Usually they have bright colored walls and furniture to make kids feel more excited to be there, which in turn can get them more excited about their oral health. And who doesn’t love when their child willingly brushes their teeth?!
Choosing between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist, can always come down to what is best for your child and family, however, here are some more factors to consider before making a final decision.
• A family dentist can treat your entire family.
• A family dentist can sometimes provide a financial savings option when all under the same roof
• Both are comfortable treating children, however, a pediatric dentist has at least an extra 2 years of specialized training with children.
• A pediatric dentist will have more experience with unique children cases, as they only treat children.
• Dentist offices for a pediatric specialist are centered around entertaining children and make them feel comfortable.
• A pediatric dentist will have more kid-friendly dental tool and equipment (less scary!)
• A pediatric dentist will have advanced knowledge in preventative oral care aimed towards children.
• Pediatric dentists are trained and able to provide the best optimal care for children with special needs.
If perhaps you are still unsure if a family dentist or pediatric dentist would be best, there is always one more option to look into beforehand. Schedule a consultation with each dentist and let your parental intuition take the reins. What is comes down to is the health and well-being of your child and if you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Apopka, look no further than Baptiste Dentistry for Kids. Our expert team can help you in finding the right choice for you and your family!
Parents have often wondered, does thumb sucking cause buck teeth? This guide explains how thumb sucking can contribute to buck teeth and what to watch for.
This guide supports understanding children's dental insurance in Florida so you can compare benefits with confidence.
Understanding what causes gingivitis in kids helps parents and caregivers protect a child’s smile with simple daily habits.
Understanding common myths about baby teeth helps protect your child’s smile, build healthy habits, and pave the way for well-aligned permanent teeth.
Here you’ll learn why fillings matter, the most common materials used in pediatric dentistry, and how to choose the best type of fillings for kids with confidence.
Families who focus on cavity prevention in children can reduce the need for fillings, keep kids comfortable, and support confident, cavity-free smiles.
Recognizing the teething symptoms and relief tips for babies and knowing safe, effective ways to soothe your child can make this stage easier for everyone.
If you’re wondering what to do if your child is grinding their teeth, the guidance in this article covers practical steps to take at home and what to do.
If you’re wondering what it means if your child has shark teeth, knowing what to watch for, and when to schedule a visit is important for good outcomes.
It is Children's Dental Health Month again, and we are providing a helpful guide to help parents navigate their child's oral health.
