Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist Cedar Park, TX
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 Cedar Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Cedar Park 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 (512) 808-5666 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.”
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist in Cedar Park, TX
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?
People Also Ask
Q. How should my child take care of their space maintainer?
Q. What is the difference between standard and electric toothbrushes?
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.
Scan here to view this page, Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist, on mobile
Definitions
Call Us Today
A pediatric dentist has the experience and qualifications to work with children and maintain their oral health. Our team at Cedar Smiles Pediatric Dentistry can help. Call us today at 512-808-5666 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2024
About our business and website security
- Cedar Smiles Pediatric Dentistry was established in 2017.
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Williamson County, Travis County and Hays County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Cedar Park, Leander, Round Rock, Georgetown, Liberty Hill, Austin, Hutto, Dripping Springs, Pflugerville and Lago Vista
- Norton Safe Web. View Details
- Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details
Scan here to open directions to Cedar Smiles Pediatric Dentistry on mobile
Back to top of Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist
QR code for Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist
Related Posts
Healthy Habits Start Early: Pediatric Dentistry Essentials
A key goal of pediatric dentistry is establishing healthy oral hygiene habits early to promote long-term oral health. With guidance from a pediatric dentist, parents can help their children understand how to maintain clean and healthy teeth at home. This early exposure can make healthy habits — like brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and eating…
Top Tips For Children’s Dental Care: What Parents Should Know
Maintaining good oral health is essential for children’s overall well-being and development. Establishing healthy dental habits early on can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Proper dental care for children requires a combination of regular visits to a pediatric dentist, healthy habits at home, and awareness of common dental concerns. Below…
What To Expect Before Seeing A Pediatric Dentist
The eruption of baby teeth is a milestone in a child’s development, and it also means it is time to see the pediatric dentist. Many parents are usually not bothered about dental care for their toddler. However, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentist advises that children should have their first dental visit before their first…
Explore additional topics covered on our website:
Call Us Today
Scan here to call Cedar Smiles Pediatric Dentistry on mobile