Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist and Not a General Dentist for Your Kids?

Opting for a pediatric dentist over a general dentist is no different from choosing a pediatrician over a family doctor for your kids. A general dentist is great for adults, but having additional training in children’s growth and development, baby teeth formation and treatment, as well as behavior management makes pediatric dentists a better choice when it comes to your child’s oral care.

Many children are not cooperative during early teeth check-ups and cleanings. A pediatric dentist’s additional 2-3 years of hands-on training and education in child psychology and development is a definite advantage. Both Dr. Lindhorst and Dr. Jadav are Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. They are trained to make your child feel safe during treatments and explain oral care and procedures in a manner understandable by kids. They also have highly trained staff that understands that approaching children is a delicate matter. The whole team’s focus is making sure your little ones’ visits are exciting, easy, and fun. They truly understand the importance of building positive experiences.

Pediatric dentists welcome patients from infancy to adolescence. Babies as young as one year old should be brought to the clinic for tooth decay prevention. These appointments educate parents on how to keep their children’s baby teeth healthy. Parents of toddlers are counseled about pacifier or thumb sucking habits. For teenagers, they understand their desire to keep a pleasing appearance. Older patients are guided on the right treatments for cavities, gum health, teeth bleaching and orthodontics.

Pediatric dentists use equipment that is specifically designed for children. Parents can expect the latest technology in ensuring gentle, yet effective procedures. Kids can have short attention span so pediatric dentists need to be fast and accurate. They must use tools that complement such a pace. The entire office is designed with the child in mind. Children can explore toys, play video games, or read books while waiting for their appointment. At Smiles for Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we offer toys for kids of all ages from toddler towers and picture books to Wii and movies for our older patients.

For very young or anxious children, sedation may be administered by a pediatric dentist if treatment is needed. Options depend on the child’s needs and can include applying topical anesthetic, using nitrous oxide, administering oral medications, or going through general anesthesia. The pediatric dentist is well versed in all of these options and can help choose the best one for your little child.

Treatment of children with mental or physical disabilities is also part of pediatric dental training. In fact, even adults with disabilities and special conditions can benefit from the expertise of pediatric dentists. Examples are those with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and seizure disorders. At Smiles for Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we have a highly effective and individualized program for patients with severe anxiety and/or autism. We have seen great success with this program and we are very proud of our kiddos! A good pediatric dentist will be happy to accommodate all questions and discuss the advantages, as well as risks, of procedures.

This specialized approach to kids of all ages is what makes pediatric dentists a superior choice. Pediatric dentists will then pass on a well-behaved and well-educated patient to their general dentist colleagues.