How Your Child Can Benefit From A Pediatric Dentist

doctor working with a young patient while she brushes her dolls teeth

Parenthood is full of questions, and parents like you probably scour the internet, ask your friends, or call your child’s pediatrician to answer all of your burning questions, such as:

  • What brand of diapers should my child use?
  • What kind of stroller should I buy?
  • What do I do if my kid eats dirt?!

While it may feel like sometimes you’re alone in your pondering, it’s reassuring to find that so many other parents have the same questions.

Another common concern many parents ask about is whether their child should visit a pediatric dentist, or a general dentist.

Lucky for you, we’ve got all of the answers you need. Just call us the Google for kids teeth!

When Should You Take Your Child to the Dentist?

But before deciding on what kind of dentist to visit, you’re probably wondering when your child’s very first dental visit should be in the first place!

At Pediatric Dental Specialists, we recommend that children visit the dentist by the time they turn one, or by the time they get their first tooth — whichever comes first.

This can help prevent early childhood cavities which, unfortunately, more and more children these days are suffering from. In fact, studies show that more preschoolers are getting cavities, and 1 in 4 of these children will have at least one cavity by the time they’re four years old.

So it comes as no surprise why the American Dental Association and American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry both agree on this: You should bring your child to the dentist no later than their first birthday.

This will help them feel comfortable at the dentist’s office and maintain optimal oral health throughout their childhood and even into adulthood. Creating a lifetime of healthy smiles starts early!

So, Pediatric Dentist or General Dentist? — That is the Question.

A trip to the dentist can cause anxiety for anyone, especially kids who don’t know what to expect. That’s why having a pediatric dentist is so beneficial for your child’s experience.

A general dentist can certainly provide for your child’s dental care, but a pediatric dentist is also specifically trained to handle the emotional and developmental stages of kids and patients with medical, physical, or mental disabilities.

That’s why there’s no question: For the best treatment possible, take your child to the pediatric dentist.

Choosing a pediatric dentist can make dental visits as efficient and stress-free as possible, for kids and parents alike.

The whole experience—from reception area to treatment rooms—is designed for kids. A pediatric dentist has a play area with games, computers, and plenty of space for kids of all ages to enjoy.

Any parent of a toddler knows that going someplace that isn’t “kid-friendly” is stressful. Being in a space specifically designed for young ones helps both kids and parents enjoy a more relaxed experience. Kids don’t get frustrated by parents constantly saying “Don’t touch that!”, and parents aren’t frazzled by constantly trying to distract and occupy their kids.

And the fun continues all the way to the dental chair! Once it’s time to go to the treatment room, your child will be greeted by a warm smile from one of our team members. Our treatment rooms are designed with kids’ tastes in mind:

  • Bright colors
  • Cool graphics
  • Plush toys
  • And more!

Any of these can bring some comfort. Even the dental chairs and tools are made especially for kids. When your child feels like they’re someplace that’s actually for them, they can more readily relax and be at ease—and so can you!

What Gives Pediatric Dentists an Edge?

Specialized training. Pediatric dentists must complete an additional three years of specialized training that focuses on children’s mental, physical, and emotional development. This means a pediatric dentist understand the needs of kids (and parents), and are trained in providing dental care to infants through adolescence.

Your child will change a lot between their first visit to the dentist and the time they graduate high school. Fortunately, our dentists are trained in understanding the growth and development of your child’s head, teeth, and face. Our team is also trained to ensure special-needs children have a great experience, too.

With this extra knowledge of children’s development, your dentist will help determine how and when to introduce healthy dental habits. We have tons of resources to address your concerns, such as how to care for your baby’s gums, or teach your child to brush. Your dentist will also discuss when to teach your kids to brush on their own, what to look for, and effective strategies.

When your child gets older and needs orthodontics or wants cosmetic care, we offer that, too! A pediatric dentist is highly trained in providing optimal care and advocating for preventive health while being skilled in addressing any serious dental issues.

Still Wondering Whether to See a Pediatric Dentist?

If you want to simplify your life, the choice should be easy.

At Pediatric Dental Specialists, we provide comprehensive care for kids, from infancy through adolescence. From the time your child is born to the time they walk across the stage for high school graduation, they’ll have a place here for complete dental care.

We have four convenient locations in Hastings, Grand Island, North Platte, and Omaha. We also partner with hospitals and surgery centers should your child need that environment for their care, which makes the treatment process seamless.

We know that scheduling and communication are often easiest when done on the internet, which is why our website offers an online appointment request form.

There’s also a patient portal that allows you to access your information securely. And we have a Facebook page for each location so you can stay up to date with the latest news, contests, and fun stuff.

A Place Just For Your Kids

Here’s what Pediatric Dental Specialists can offer you and your child:

  • A kid-friendly office
  • Specially trained dentists and team members — who are also friendly and fun!
  • Early growth and development evaluations of head and jaw
  • A focus on preventive care, with proper oral hygiene instruction
  • Guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques; eating habits; and how to apply fluoride and sealants
  • Baby care and instruction for parents
  • Ability to correct tongue or lip ties
  • Restorative dental care should your child need a filling
  • Cosmetic dental care
  • Orthodontics

If you’re looking for comprehensive pediatric dental care in Nebraska, contact one of our four locations nearest you today to schedule your appointment!

We’d love to answer your questions and we look forward to partnering with you.

 

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