When your baby is born, you quickly fall into a rhythm of regular visits with your pediatrician. But what many parents aren’t conditioned to think about during their child’s younger years is the dentist their child will visit. While many parents may consider taking their child to a general dentist, Dallas Children’s Dental Network recognizes that there are many benefits to choosing a pediatric dentist for your child’s care. If you’ve found yourself questioning the difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist, you’re not alone!
What Is A General Dentist?
General dentists, sometimes known as “family dentists,” don’t specialize in a specific form of dentistry. Instead, general dentists treat a wide array of patients for generalized procedures and treatments. Treatments such as reducing plaque buildup, removing tooth decay, filling cavities, and supporting gum health would be addressed by most general dentists, however, for more sensitive issues, many general dentists often refer their patients to specialists.
What Is A Pediatric Dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. Just as you would seek a pediatrician for your child’s medical needs, a pediatric dentist is uniquely qualified to care for your child’s oral health. A pediatric dentist has two to three years of specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. In this regard, pediatric dentists are often regarded as the best primary oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
What are the benefits of choosing a pediatric dental office?
Pediatric dental offices, like those in the Dallas Children’s Dental Network, tend to cater to children more than a general dental office. At DCDN, we are proud to cater to our young patients’ needs with engaging play areas, child-sized equipment, and staff that are trained to explain dental procedures and terms to patients in ways that aren’t intimidating. This means that your pediatric dentist has really gone the extra lengths to protect and care for children’s mouths and teeth. When it comes to choosing a dentist for your child, it’s always a good idea to visit an office in person to help your child get accustomed to the new environment.
If you’re interested in finding a local pediatric dentist in Arlington, Colleyville, Dallas, Frisco, Hurst, or the Saginaw, Texas area, Dallas Children’s Dental Network would be happy to help! Find an office near you today.