What Are the Differences Between a Children’s Dentist and a Family Dentist?

Kid Friendly Dentist West Grove, PA

Not every dentist is the same, and a children’s dentist is no exception. General and family dentists do perform the same tasks in looking after the teeth. However, a children’s dentist has additional training for that field. But you might not fully understand the differences between a family dentist and a children’s dentist. Keep reading to find out more.

About the difference

A family dentist cares for both adult and baby teeth. But a children’s dentist only focuses on the oral care of a child. Children’s dentists have more training as well. Both family and children’s dentists might have done a Doctor of Dental Medicine or a Doctor of Dental Surgery. However, a children’s dentist has also done two or three years more of training.

What a children’s dentist does

The job of this type of dentist is similar to family dentists. But there are still some differences. A children’s dentist has to know more about the needs of growing children. This might be as young as the age of eight months. The dentist also needs to know how to interact well with teens, tweens, and even toddlers.

Many parents choose this type of dentist because of the ability to make children feel more comfortable. The situation can be very stressful for these children. A children’s dentist needs to offer a range of preventative services. That might include fluoride treatments and sealants. Other services might include:

  • Nutritional and diet advice
  • Care for orthodontic problems like misalignment
  • Counseling for negative habits such as thumb-sucking
  • Repairing cavities
  • Diagnosing health issues early, such as heart disease or diabetes
  • Emergency dental care
  • Managing periodontal disease

The first visit

Parents and the child should arrive early to fill out any necessary paperwork. Parents might also request a tour of the dental office. The child can stay in the play area or watch how the cleaning process works. That can help the child become comfortable. Even if the child has mental developmental needs or emotional impairments, a children’s dentist can help.

The first dental checkup should occur as soon as the first tooth comes in. At this age, the treatment will only be preventative. It will help the child to have good oral cleaning habits early in life. It is also a chance to get used to visiting the dentist.

Parents might be wondering how often to go to the children’s dentist. The right amount of time between visits is around six months. This allows the dentist to see how the teeth are growing in. It can also be a time to address potential issues.

Choose a children’s dentist today

If you are looking for the right care for your child, consider visiting a children’s dentist. This can be a better option for your child than going to a family dentist. Making a consultation with one can help you decide if this is the right option. Your first step is to make an appointment today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesinpa.com or call Jenny Chen Pediatric and Family Dentistry at (610) 400-1588 for an appointment in our West Grove office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Kid Friendly Dentist in West Grove, PA.

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