As a parent, you appreciate the value of good oral health in children. You know that kids with good oral hygiene are less stressed, do better at school, and have more self-confidence.
Some of the steps you’ve taken to improve their oral hygiene are leading by example, encouraging them to brush their twice a day, feeding them healthy foods that strengthen teeth and gums and fight bacteria, and minimizing their consumption of foods that encourage the growth of germs in the mouth.
Of course, you know that one of the most important steps is to regularly take them to a children’s dentist, where their teeth can be cleaned and monitored for problems related to oral health. Unfortunately, finding a good children’s pediatric dentist can be challenging, especially with so many to choose from. However, you can make the task easier by asking the following questions:
#1 Do You Have Experience Treating Children?
Ask the clinic if they have experience treating children. While a qualified dentist can treat people of any age, only a pediatric dentist that’s passionate about treating younger clients will have the aptitude for the job. For instance, a pediatric dentist like Dentistry on 7th has ample experience creating a relaxing and positive atmosphere for its young patients – that’s exactly what you want from a dentist.
You don’t want your child to visit a dentist who gets flustered when treating kids. Ideally, your child should see a compassionate and patient dentist who has an affinity with children.
#2 What Facilities Does Your Clinic Have for Kids?
Some kids are especially anxious about seeing a dentist. You can help with their anxiety by starting their visits to the clinic early and by talking to them about their oral health. Likewise, avoid using stressful language when discussing oral health.
A compassionate and gentle dentist can also help alleviate stress. However, some children need more help with their anxiety. Many clinics have toys, books, and TV sets to help children relax. Other clinics also offer laughing gas or sedation to kids, especially if they need to be completely still for a procedure. Ask the dental clinic if they have such facilities before making an appointment for your child.
#3 Do You Use the Latest Technology?
Many children feel anxious about going to the dentist because they felt pain or discomfort during their last visit. While some of this is unavoidable, it’s important to find a clinic that uses cutting edge technology to treat its patients. Modern dental tools are so precise that they make treatment more comfortable than ever before. Such tools are also thorough. With such tools, dentists can catch problems in children early and offer treatment before the issues grow worse and more painful. For example, the 3D Imaging Cone Beam CT Scan can zero in one even minute problems.
#4 Do You Offer Orthodontic Services?
While orthodontic treatments can be offered at any age, they’re especially effective for children because their jaws are still growing and can be more readily influenced by dental appliances. Your children’s dentist should be monitoring their jaw for signs that they’ll need help correcting their bite. By watching out for red flags, they can help you plan for the future.
These are four questions you should ask before taking your child to a pediatric dentist. By finding a dentist who is passionate about treating children, experienced, skilled, and uses the latest technology, you can help your child get the best possible oral care.
You made a good point that I should also consider looking for orthodontic services when choosing a pediatric care clinic for my child. I might need to visit a doctor frequently soon because my child is apparently underweight according to my sister. I have to make sure that I can stay on top of his nutritional needs these coming months.