What is Special about a Pediatric Dentist?
When it comes to your child’s smile, choosing the right dentist can feel overwhelming. Many parents ask:
“Should my child see a pediatric dentist, or can they just go to my general dentist?”
Many people, my husband included, didn’t grow up going to a pediatric dentist so the reason to chose a pediatric specialist may not be clear. The reason to pick a pediatric dentist really comes down to training, experience, and the unique needs of children’s dental care.
For example, Pediatric dentists often specialize in making kids feel comfortable. Fun fact! Dr. Lisa had such a good pediatric dentist as a child that it inspired her to pursue pediatric dentistry herself.
So let’s break down the differences—and why it matters for your little one’s oral health.
Specialized Training for Kids
A general dentist typically completes four years of dental school and treats patients of all ages.
A pediatric dentist, however, completes two to three additional years of specialty training focused exclusively on the dental needs of infants, children, and teens, including those with special needs.
This training covers:
- Child psychology and behavior guidance – to calm them and reduce anxiety
- Growth and development of teeth and jaws, to plan for better future dental outcomes
- Preventing, identifying, and treating early childhood cavities
- Safe sedation techniques for children
Behavior Management Skills
Children—especially toddlers—can be nervous or uncooperative in the dental chair (and who can blame them when many adults similarly are nervous about seeing the dentist).
Pediatric dentists are trained in age-appropriate communication and gentle guidance – demonstrating each step of a procedure before it is done – making visits smoother for both kids and parents.
Preventive Care Focus
While general dentists also provide preventive care, pediatric dentists place extra emphasis on prevention from the earliest age possible. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and that is especially true as kids are growing up.
That means:
- Monitoring jaw and bite development, to ensure growth is happening in a way that paves the way for healthy permanent teeth
- Teaching proper brushing and flossing techniques, skills that will last a lifetime
- Advising on nutrition to protect teeth to ensure they grow strong
Experience with Special Needs
Pediatric dentists are skilled at treating children with physical, developmental, or sensory challenges, adapting their approach to meet each child’s needs.
This could mean extra visits or time to build familiarity with a new environment, turning off lights or reducing sounds where possible, and calm clear language. We can work with your family to discuss each patient’s specific needs.
Ready for your visit?
If you are ready to see what makes pediatric dentistry special for your children and sets Smile Garden pediatric dentistry apart, sign up for an appointment or feel free to contact us.
Let’s grow together!