If you are a parent of a brand new toddler, it's time to start thinking about whom to choose as your child's dentist
. More than anything else, you want going to the dentist to be a pleasurable, non-threatening experience for your baby so that she'll reap the benefits that come from getting lifelong regular dental care. You could opt to take her to your own family dentist, but is that really the right choice? Here are 7 good reasons to choose a pediatric dentist (PD) instead.
Pediatric dentists receive additional formal training that family dentists do not. That extra knowledge, expertise, and study is a bonus for your child.
A PD treats only children all day, every day. He will therefore be more experienced in conditions to watch out for and in how to treat them most effectively.
A PD is simply great with kids! They know the right techniques that will calm a wary child and help her to have a more positive experience.
The other patients are children too. Kids always feel more comfortable and less threatened when they are around other rug rats just like them.
Everything in the office is geared towards little ones: from the size of the furniture to the toys in the waiting room. The whole environment says to your child: "You belong here and this is a fun place to be!"
The staff loves kids too. Many well-meaning receptionists and hygienists in family practices have a hard time with the natural boisterousness of kids: a PD's staff will make your child feel at home and welcomed and she'll never be made to feel like a nuisance.
A PD is a great resource to help you find answers about your child's oral health. He is an expert on juvenile dental care and will give you the sound, expert advice you need.
Nurturing a positive relationship with a pediatric dentist will teach your baby that dentists are the "good guys" and that going to his office is a fun adventure to look forward to. Getting off on the right foot is more likely to lead to better overall oral hygiene habits for your child and she will be more willing to make regular visits a natural part of her adult life.