Are you searching for a kids’ dentist in Beaumont, KY? There are now over 71,220 professionals employed in the US pediatric dentistry industry. You could waste time trying to vet every local pediatric dental care clinic.
Instead, consider these factors while vetting your options for a children’s dentist in Beaumont. With these tips, you can find a qualified team that meets the highest standard of care. Read on to find your child’s dentist today.
Ask Parents for a Trusted Kids’ Dentist
Instead of vetting the hundreds of dentists in the area, talk to parents who have already completed the process. Consult friends, family members, and neighbors in Beaumont. Ask if they recommend their child’s pediatric dentist.
Draft a list of questions you want to ask about each dentist. For example:
- What are the dentist’s qualifications?
- How long have they worked in the industry?
- Do they own their practice?
- What pediatric dental services do they offer?
- Do they specialize in pediatric dentistry?
- Have you experienced problems at the clinic?
- Does your child like their dentist?
If parents had a negative experience at a clinic, learn more. Did the team try to remedy the problem? These professionals care about patient experiences.
Ask about the staff. For example, are they friendly and patient? Choose a team that has experience putting children at ease.
If you can’t gather referrals from local parents, begin your search online.
Use online directories like Yelp, Healthgrades, or the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). ABPD is the certifying board for the specialty of pediatric dentistry. Their website can help you find board-certified pediatric dentists in your area.
Read reviews for each dental practice on your list. You can find reviews on Yelp, Healthgrades, and Better Business Bureau.
Look for parent reviews about waiting times, responsiveness, and professionalism. Avoid practices where the same problems repeat between multiple patients.
Instead, choose a practice with a glowing, established reputation. They’ll maintain their well-earned reputation by achieving a higher standard of care.
Review Their Credentials
Confirm that each children’s dentist in Beaumont has the proper credentials. A trusted kids’ dentist should have a bachelor’s degree. After earning their undergraduate degree, they can apply and attend dental school.
Pediatric dentists can earn one of two degrees: a Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Dental Medicine. Each degree requires a minimum of four years at a dental school.
Confirm that the dentist earned their degree from an accredited institution by checking their Healthgrades profile. Consider what courses they studied.
Choose a dentist who has completed courses on child development and psychology. These courses will ensure they have specialized knowledge. They may have an easier time ensuring your child’s growth and development.
Confirm that the dentist has an active general dental license. Determine if they have additional certifications that speak to their level of expertise.
Pediatric dentists earn ABPD certification based on their licensure and education. Dentists must complete the Qualifying and Oral Clinical Exams. Finding dentists with ABPD certification ensures they have specialized knowledge and skills.
ABPD board certification ensures the dentist:
- Has the required specialized knowledge and skills
- Is committed to continuous competency and learning
- Is dedicated to providing quality patient care
- Has advanced education approved by CODA
You can feel more confident choosing a dentist with these credentials.
Gauge Their Level of Experience
Determine how long each dentist has specialized in pediatric dental care. Consider how long they’ve owned their practice. An established dental practice has outlasted competitors by offering top-notch services.
Experienced pediatric dentists know how to talk to and soothe young patients. They can help your child feel comfortable in a welcoming environment.
Look for a pediatric dentist with qualities that speak to their ability to treat children. These include:
- Strong communication skills
- Calm demeanor
- A kind and soothing voice
- Ability to breakdown complex concepts for children
An experienced dentist will have an easier time relieving your child’s dental anxiety. Relieving their anxiety now can benefit your child as an adult.
Otherwise, they may avoid going to the dentist. Between 9 and 20% of Americans avoid appointments due to dental anxiety or fear.
Skipping appointments can compromise your child’s health. Finding a pediatric dentist who can keep them calm can help your child later. They’ll feel more comfortable and confident about attending appointments alone.
Consider Their Pediatric Dental Care Services
Review each practice’s pediatric dental care services. Look for a practice that offers a range of services.
You’ll only need to visit one practice, regardless of your child’s specific needs. They’ll feel more comfortable visiting a dentist they already know and trust. These services can include:
- Preventive dentistry
- Restorative dentistry
- Sedation dentistry
- Emergency dentistry
Choose a dentist that prioritizes prevention. Their services can reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay. These can include sealants and fluoride treatment.
Make sure the practice uses state-of-the-art technology. Choose teams that keep up with new services, technologies, and techniques. They’ll meet a higher standard of care.
Visit the Office
Visit the office and consider the environment. Is it kid-friendly (featuring fun decor and games)? A child-friendly practice is more likely to put your child at ease.
Make sure the practice is clean and organized. Note how many people are in the waiting room. If it’s full, you may experience delays when your child needs treatment.
Prepare a list of questions you want to ask the dentist. For example, what dental care tips for kids can they recommend? They should help you and your child prioritize their at-home dental hygiene.
Consult Your Insurance Company
Ask three local dental practices how much their pediatric dental care services cost. Compare prices between practices to determine if one overcharges. If they do, question why.
Consult your dental insurance provider to determine which services are covered.
Find Your Kids’ Dentist in Beaumont
Don’t choose the first kids’ dentist in Beaumont you find online. Instead, use these tips to do your due diligence. Find a qualified professional who can prioritize your child’s oral health.
Beaumont Kids Dentistry is the leading kids’ dentist in Lexington, KY. We’re dedicated to providing the best care while creating an environment that makes dentistry fun.
Trust our state-of-the-art technology and specialized training to ensure your child receives the best care. Contact us now to schedule your child’s next appointment.