What is a Pediatric Dentist?

What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a specialist who is dedicated to the attainment of excellent oral health in children from infancy through adolescence.  Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. Both have received specialized training in recognizing and treating the health needs of children.  Infants, young children, pre-teens, and teenagers all need different approaches in dealing with their behavior, dental growth and development.  In addition, pediatric dentists are qualified to treat special patients who may be emotionally, physically or mentally challenged.  The environment is made comfortable to younger children with a play area and our highly skilled staff know how to help children feel at ease.

Pointers for Parents

DO!

• Talk to your child in a positive matter of fact way about going to the pediatric dentist.
• Emphasize that a pediatric dentist is a doctor who helps kids take care of their teeth.
• If the doctor prefers, let your child go into the treatment room alone.
• Set a good example – brush and floss your own teeth daily and visit the dentist regularly.

DON’T

• Bribe your child into going to the pediatric dentist.
• Use a dental visit as punishment.
• Let your child know you feel any anxiety about going to the dentist.
• If possible, don’t let anyone tell your child scary stories about dental visits.
• Use words like hurt, pain, needle, drill, shot, etc.