CHILDREN'S DENTIST VS REGULAR DENTIST
As a parent or a caregiver, you are probably looking into a good school for your children, a good doctor for your children and a good dentist for your children. Just like schools and doctors, there are several things you should consider when choosing a dentist for your children. The major objective is that your children’s teeth are cared for by a professional. The dentist you choose for your children should make you and your children comfortable, provide positive experiences during their visits, and even connect your children to foster a trusting relationship. Choosing the best dentist is choosing between a general dentist, a family dentist and a pediatric dentist in winston salem north carolina.
What is a Family Dentist?
One of the types of dentist you can choose from includes a family dentist. Family dentistry is very similar to general dentistry and family dentists treat a wide range of dental conditions from a wide range of dental patients. Family dentists provide care for patients of all ages or for every member of a family. Some general dentists may restrict the age range of patients, preferring to focus on adults.
Both general and family dentists have strengths and a wide variety of training, most often people go to these dentists for general cleanings and dental maintenance. General and family dentists will help you address plaque buildup and tooth decay but they will often rely on a referral to a specialist for more serious gum disease or tooth extraction.
What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist receives the same training in dental school as general and family dentists. Pediatric dentists differentiate themselves with additional training for two to three years after dental school. The additional training helps them specialize in children’s behavior, the dental issues unique to children and patients with special needs.
Just like a pediatrician has furniture and an overall office that caters to children, a pediatric dentist office is as kid-friendly as they come. The office is designed with children in mind usually with a play area and staff who are experienced in explaining treatments and working with children. Pediatric dentists have access to smaller tools for the smaller mouths and regular exposure to the unique needs of children’s teeth and mouths.
Advantages of Both Family and Pediatric Dentists
There are advantages to choosing the best kind of dentist for you and your children. A family dentist can offer you:
- Exposure to and comfort with treating children
- The ability to treat many dental issues in one office
- A one stop shop for all your family members dental needs
A pediatric dentist can offer you these advantages:
- Years of specialized training in children, special needs, and research
- Kid-focused environments to relax, educate and engage children
- Staff who are experienced with children as patients; they are the only patients. The pediatric dentist and staff are experienced day in and day out with children, their behavior and their dental needs.
- Smaller, child sized chairs and tools
A family restaurant can offer you crayons and a coloring book for your child. A kid focused restaurant can offer you a jungle gym, a special menu and staff who know how to work with children. When considering a family dentist over a pediatric dentist, only you can answer which is best for your family and its needs.
Making the Final Decision
If the answer is not clear to you, call offices to schedule consultations. After speaking with the staff and dentist, you and your family will find a place where you are comfortable.
More on Pediatric Dentistry : First Age of Child's Visit to Dentist