Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist Holland, PA
The difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist is more than just a title. Pediatric dentists receive additional training to make them uniquely qualified to specialize in treating children. Taking your child to a pediatric dentist can help set them up for good oral hygiene for the rest of their lives.
Pediatric dentistry is available at Myriam Cerezo, DMD, Pediatric Dentist in Holland and the surrounding area. Set your child up for a lifetime of oral health and have them get a great first impression of dentistry. Call us today at (215) 867-8243 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Ages Treated by a Pediatric Dentist
According to MouthHealthy, a pediatric dentist focuses on treating the oral health of children. Their training allows them to treat children starting from infancy through their teen years. Baby teeth typically begin erupting during a child's first six months of life. When a child turns six or seven years old, they will begin to lose their first set of teeth and have their permanent teeth come in.
Without the proper, specialized treatment they need, young children are more likely to suffer oral decay and disease. Such chronic oral health issues can have lifelong effects and complications. As such, parents must take their children to a dentist who focuses on children's specific needs and anatomy.
“… a pediatric dentist is a dentist focused on the oral health of children.”
Getting a Good First Impression of the Dentist
On top of being uniquely qualified to treat children's teeth, gums, and mouth, pediatric dentists also understand how to make children feel comfortable in the dentist's office. They understand that a happy child is a happy patient — while a general dentist may simply focus on completing the procedure.
A pediatric dentist's office, on the other hand, is tailored specifically towards children. Thus, there are often books, toys, and other fun distractions that will cause the child to associate the dentist with positive interactions and play. This first impression can leave the child with positive associations with oral health that they will have for a lifetime.
“On top of being uniquely qualified to treat children’s teeth, gums, and mouth, pediatric dentists also understand how to make children feel comfortable in the dentist’s office.”
Differences in Training
Pediatric dentists are not just dentists who chose to work with kids. They are dentists who receive additional training to work with children and manage various behavioral situations. In addition to completing four years of dental school, pediatric dentists must complete a two-year residency training program in dentistry for infants, children, teens, and children with special needs.
General dentists, in contrast, do not complete any such residency. While they can treat children, general dentists do not have the same expertise, experience, or training as pediatric dentists. Additionally, they are generally more well-acquainted with adult oral anatomy. In short, while general dentists are capable, they lack the comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of pediatric dentists — and the experience necessary to treat any possible behavioral needs.
“In addition to completing four years of dental school, pediatric dentists must complete a two-year residency training program in dentistry for infants, children, teens, and children with special needs.”
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Tools Designed for Children
Pediatric dentists also have different tools at their disposal. While adult-sized dental tools may technically work in a child's mouth, they are not designed with children's needs in mind. Since the anatomy of a child's mouth is different from an adult's, children require different dental tools.
Luckily, pediatric dentists have smaller dental tools to make dental exams, cleanings, and treatment generally less uncomfortable and more enjoyable. These tools are another part of ensuring that children have a good impression of the dentist. It can help make dental visits less intimidating.
“While adult-sized dental tools may technically work in a child’s mouth, they are not designed with children’s needs in mind.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What ages does a pediatric dentist treat?
Q. How does a pediatric dentist create a positive association with oral health?
Q. How much training does a pediatric dentist need to undergo?
Q. Do pediatric dentists use different tools?
Q. What are the benefits of pediatric dentists working with children every day?
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Enthusiasm About Treatment
Unlike general dentists, pediatric dentists became dentists specifically to work with children. As a result, they are enthusiastic about treating this particular age group and constantly working with them. In other words, they are continually being "trained" to improve.
With each patient visit, pediatric dentists use positive reinforcement. They also employ the "tell-show-do" technique when educating children about their dental treatment. This technique involves explaining the procedure to the child in understandable language, showing them a simplified version of the treatment, and performing the procedure in a soothing tone meant to calm both the child and parent.
“Unlike general dentists, pediatric dentists became dentists specifically to work with children.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When should I take my child to the dentist for their first dental check-up?
A. A child's first dental appointment is more about taking preventive measures and getting them accustomed to the dentist's office. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child to the dentist as soon as their first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday. Parents should choose whichever option comes first.
Q. Are baby teeth important?
A. Yes, and they should not be neglected. Your child's baby teeth help them speak clearly and chew naturally. They also act as placeholders for permanent teeth. As such, anything that disrupts the baby teeth can disrupt the growth of the permanent teeth.
Q. How should I clean my baby's teeth?
A. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Brush at least once a day before bedtime. This will help remove any decay-causing plaque.
Q. How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?
A. Baby bottle tooth decay is a condition in which a child experiences a pattern of rapid decay due to prolonged nursing. It occurs when the child falls asleep while feeding. Parents can help prevent baby bottle tooth decay by avoiding nursing children to sleep or putting liquids other than water in their bedtime bottles.
Q. What are dental sealants?
A. Dental sealants are thin coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of the molars to prevent tooth decay. They cover the chewing surfaces like a protective shield. Dental sealants block out any germs and food that could cause cavities.
Start Feeling Better – Visit Us Today
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Call Us Today
A pediatric dentist has the experience and qualifications to work with children and maintain their oral health. Our team at Myriam Cerezo, DMD, Pediatric Dentist can help. Call us today at 215-867-8243 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2024
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