When you’re finally ready to schedule your child’s first visit to the dentist, you may be confused about which type of dentist to call. One thing to remember is that all dentists have the same qualifications in terms of basic oral healthcare services for patients of all ages. However, pediatric dentists have focused on developing the oral health of younger patients. This additional expertise helps ensure that they’ll be able to notice developing problems early and take steps to address them before they become serious. Kids 360 Pediatric Dentistry is proud to provide pediatric dental care in Richmond, TX.
Explore The Differences Between Pediatric and General Dentists
The education of both general and pediatric dentists begins with at least seven years of schooling to obtain their general dental degree. General dentists stop their journey here while pediatric dentists continue their education. Pediatric dentists must undergo two to three years of residency that is tightly focused on pediatric dentistry. This additional level of experience makes them experts in helping children of all ages. Perhaps more importantly, it provides them with the skills necessary to manage patients who are medically compromised or have special needs. Further, they’re able to provide sedation and anesthesia services for these patients.
Other important differences include the following:
- Quality of Care: General dentists can provide adequate care for almost any patient. However, pediatric dentists are experts in the area of preventative dental care. From the eruption of your child’s first tooth through the arrival of their final adult teeth, they’re on the job. They watch not only for cavities, dental complications, and disorders that are present but for those that may develop in future years. This ensures that action can be taken to limit the impact of these concerns before they mature.
- Kid-Friendly Environment: Pediatric dentists know that ensuring a positive experience for a child is more about a peaceful visit. It also serves to provide confidence and security that will ensure positive relationships with dental care for a lifetime. This is why pediatric dental offices are specifically designed to welcome children by including toys, games, magazines, cartoons, and other accouterments. This creates a welcoming environment your child will look forward to visiting.
- Years Of Child-Focused Experience: With every passing year, our team becomes more experienced in providing care to our young patients. During this same period, general dentists will be spreading their attention across the dental issues facing patients of all ages. Here at Kids 360 Pediatric, our sole focus on pediatric dentistry ensures your child’s oral health is in excellent hands.
The most essential point in finding the right dentist for your child is taking them with you to visit the clinic.
Come See Our Team in Richmond, TX
Before their first appointment, allow them to meet the staff and dental team that will be caring for them. Further, ensure they take time to become comfortable with the environment and potentially engage with some of our current patients in our child-friendly waiting room. All of these will help lay the groundwork for a comfortable and relaxed dental experience for your child and you.