We’ve all been there: you take your child to a pediatric dentist, only to be met with crying, screaming, and an experience that warrants an ice cream break afterward. This is why you need to visit the best kid’s dentist, equipped with silly jokes, comically large toothbrushes, and a bedside manner that makes you ask, “Can you be my dentist, too?”
Choosing a pediatric dentist isn’t just about picking the first person your insurance company recommends. It’s about finding a healthcare provider you and your children trust and feel comfortable with. A pediatric dentist is a specialist who helps your children develop good dental habits to prevent dental issues while reducing fear, so finding someone you connect with is paramount.
This essential guide helps you choose the right dentist for your child’s smile.
Focus on Experience
Pediatric dentists are general dentists who have completed two to three years of additional training. Their advanced education enables them to understand diagnostic procedures and surgical treatments for small mouths. This includes everything from toddlers to teenagers in need of orthodontic guidance.
Their specialized training extends to the following areas:
- Child psychology
- Behavior guidance
- How to treat kids with special healthcare needs
This extra training makes a huge difference, especially for children who are:
- Nervous
- Sensitive
- Have unique medical considerations
Pediatric dentists are specialists who know how to monitor oral development to catch subtle issues early. From there, they can create treatment plans that grow with your child. They also understand that dental visits need to be fun and low-pressure — for parents and kids.
Verify Credentials and Licensing
Before choosing a top pediatric dentist, always check their credentials.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are they board-certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry?
- Are they members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)?
- How long have they been practicing pediatric dentistry?
If the office is reputable, you can find this information on their website, and they’ll be licensed, with certificates displayed during your office tour. Don’t hesitate to ask about a dentist’s credentials in advance.
You’re entrusting this professional with the health and well-being of your child, so ask questions such as:
- Where did you attend dental school and complete your pediatric residency?
- Are you licensed to practice in this state?
- Do you work with children who have special needs?
- How do you stay current with the latest techniques and treatments?
When working with a knowledgeable, credentialed dentist, they’ll be more than happy to offer answers and peace of mind.
Explore the Office Environment
If you want to find a dentist for kids, consider a few key factors.
Is the pediatric dental office kid-friendly? You want an inviting atmosphere from the front door to the exam chair, helping children feel at ease. Some things to look for include:
- A bright, welcoming space
- Books
- Games
- Toys
Look for signs that the staff is attentive, friendly, and that they enjoy working with children. Do they greet your family warmly?
Office staff should also explain the exam and any procedures to you and your child, so you’re both comfortable and prepared, allowing you to ask questions without speaking over you.
If your child is nervous, the dentist and oral hygienist should be patient and comforting.
Having small details around the office, including kid-sized dental chairs, fun murals, and sunglasses to shield them from bright lights, are all ways of putting a child at ease during a dental exam.
Consider Location and Accessibility
When managing work, school, extracurricular activities, and more, location is key. Some pediatric dentistry tips include choosing a pediatric dentist you trust who is also close to home, school, or daycare.
This can make appointments easier to manage. If it helps with your schedule, look for a dentist with evening or weekend hours, as this helps working families or families with multiple children.
The cherry on top is a dentist with a flexible schedule, an online appointment book, or group family visits.
Services and Treatment Options Offered
The best pediatric dentist should offer more than cleanings and routine cavity checks. Look for a practice that provides a full range of services, including:
- Preventive care
- Restorative care
- Emergency care
- Special needs care
Remember that a child’s dental needs change quickly, which is why you want a dentist who offers comprehensive care. This lets them stay with the same dentist they trust from their first tooth to teenage orthodontics.
Look for Reviews
When in doubt, check reviews for children’s dental care. You’ll learn about other experiences and can get a feel for the provider.
A child-friendly dentist may have reviews on their site, but you should always check out their Google profile to get a complete picture of how families evaluate their dental practice.
Check Behavior Management Skills
Not every child is at ease the moment they set foot in a dentist’s office. Some have had previous bad experiences and are hesitant.
That’s why a dentist with behavior management is one of the most important skills parents can look for. They should offer children a space to “warm up” before their exam.
For example, a good dentist might let a child push buttons, raising and lowering the dental chair before asking them to sit in it. They might also gently narrate their steps so your child knows what to expect.
If your child has Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other special needs, always work with a dentist who is trained in gentle, flexible approaches tailored to your child’s specific needs.
Look for These Skills in the Best Kid’s Dentist
Your child’s dentist will likely be part of your life for many years, which is why you need to choose the best kid’s dentist. They’ll work with your family to prevent dental issues, create a healthy routine, and ensure your child grows up feeling comfortable in the dentist’s chair. Always work with a dentist who is licensed and insured, has excellent reviews, and has a wonderful bedside manner to put you and your child at ease.
At Beaumont Kids Dentistry, we prioritize experience, atmosphere, services, and trust, offering your family a pediatric dentist who supports your child’s oral health and emotional well-being. Our goal is for every dental visit to be something they look forward to with a smile, so contact us today to schedule an appointment.