Not all of those with the title of Houston dentist can claim to be a pediatric dentist. Dealing with children takes special care. The same rule applies to those who take care of young teeth. A pediatric dentist goes through up to three years of training after dental school. In order to satisfy the basic standards of what a good pediatric dentist is, it is ideal to visit a dentist even before any tooth emergencies arise.
The concept of pediatric dentistry is rooted on prevention. The care of teeth actually needs to happen as soon as the infant is born. With gum disease being transmissible, a child can experience oral problems even before the teeth erupt. There is also the risk of developing tooth decay from using the bottle or even breast milk. Having regular contact with a pediatric dentist goes a long way in preventing these problems from occurring.
Finding a pediatric dentist is a tougher task compared to finding a regular dentist. Only a small percentage of dentists actually specialize in the field so more effort is required. In choosing the right dentist for the baby, it is important to consider the personality of dentist. A pediatric dentist needs to be gentle and patient when dealing with children.
Ask about what techniques are employed on young children when it comes to treatment. For example, ask about what is the policy of the dental office on the use of physical restraint when administering the medication. The parent has to be comfortable with the answer given by the dentist.
Another important point to consider when looking for a dentist for babies is to see if there is anyone on staff that is trained in the CPR of children. It becomes even more vital when the child has asthma, allergies, or heart or lung ailments. In addition to the demeanor and competence of the dentist as well as the staff, the offices should also be apt for the specialization. Bright colors and even toys can go a long way in alleviating anxiety in children. When the fear of dental offices is removed, it becomes easier to maintain the habit of regular visits to the dentists later on.