As a parent, making sure your child’s teeth are healthy is crucial. Dental care is very important from the time the first tooth comes in until they need braces. It’s as critical as going to the doctor for a checkup.
Many parents wonder if their child should see a pediatric dentist or a general dentist. They’re both qualified to care for teeth. There are differences between the two that can help you decide which is best for your child.
What is the Difference Between a Pediatric Dentist and a General Dentist?
Each dentist brings something different to the table. A pediatric dentist is a professional who has completed extra training after dental school. They train for two to three more years, with a specialization in treating children. Their specialty covers everything from infancy through adolescence. They can also treat patients with special needs up to early adulthood.
Pediatric dentists are the “pediatricians of dentistry.” It’s because they are experts in child development. They know how to make dental visits more comfortable and less scary for young patients. Some key areas they specialize in include:
- Early childhood oral health and preventive care
- Treating cavities in baby teeth
- Monitoring jaw and tooth development
- Managing dental anxiety in children
- Working with kids who have medical, developmental, or behavioral challenges
A general dentist is the most common type of dental professional. They take care of people of different ages. Their focus is on general oral health, preventive care, and restorative treatments. They also do cosmetic procedures. General dentists take care of:
- Regular cleanings and checkups
- Bridges, crowns, and fillings
- Removing teeth and doing root canals
- Treatment for gum disease
- Cosmetic dentistry, such as whitening teeth or putting on veneers
A lot of general dentists treat kids, even if they don’t have formal training in pediatrics. They may give great care, especially to older youngsters. They are also great for families who want to have only one dentist.
Best Reasons to Choose a Pediatric Dentist
A dentist for kids is the best choice for a lot of families, especially when their kids are young. This is why:
- A Place That’s Good for Kids
Pediatric dentistry offices are pleasant and welcoming. This helps kids feel less scared and anxious. An environment that is friendly has bright colors, cartoons, and toys.
- Expertise in a Specific Area
Pediatric dentists know how to deal with the special care needed for newborn teeth. They know all about jaw growth and the important stages of development. They can find possible orthodontic problems early on.
- Managing Behavior and Patience
Kids don’t always want to help when they’re in the dental chair. To make visits less unpleasant, pediatric dentists use gentle, calming methods.
- Advice on How to Avoid Problems
They give parents tips on how to deal with teething, brushing habits, and food. They can help keep kids from getting cavities.
Benefits of Picking a General Dentist
- Easy for Everyone in the Family
The same dentist can visit everyone in the family. This makes it easier to make appointments. It also helps you create a long-term relationship with one provider.
- Wide Range of Services
General dentists can do a lot of different things. They do everything from cleaning to restorative work. You won’t even need a referral.
- Suitable for Older Children
As kids grow into their teenage years, they may feel more comfortable with a general dentist. They would want to have someone who will treat them as adults.
Guidelines for Choosing the Right Dentist
Deciding between a pediatric and a general dentist depends on several factors. You need to think about your child’s age, personality, and dental needs. Here are some tips to help you:
- For babies and toddlers, a pediatric dentist is the best choice for their initial visit. Their area of expertise is early development. They give parents advice on how to care for their baby’s teeth.
- Children with Anxiety: A pediatric specialist may be the best fit for those afraid of the dentist.
- Special Needs: Pediatric dentists have training in treating patients with developmental conditions. They can also handle those with behavioral challenges.
- Teenagers and Young Adults: A general dentist can be better for kids who are older. At this age, they are more independent and don’t need services for kids.
Before You Go
Dentistry of Orlando can give your child the best start to a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our clinic offers the best of both worlds. We combine the warmth of pediatric care with the expertise of general dentistry. It’s why we’re the perfect dental clinic for families. You can schedule an appointment here. You can also call our clinics at (407) 249-9292 and (407) 851-5555.
