The Differences Between a Pediatric and Family Dentist
The differences between a Pediatric Dentist and a Family dentist are many more years of specialized training and experience with children to meet the unique needs of your child.
What is a Family Dentist
A family dentist is similar to a general dentist. Rather than specialize in a specific field of dentistry like endodontics or orthodontics, they provide a range of services. Although general dentists might sometimes restrict the age of people they will treat, family dentists provide dental care to people of all ages.
Although a family dentist might have some special skills, they typically focus on the more general issues like reducing plaque buildup around teeth, eliminating tooth decay, filling cavities, and ensuring that gums remain healthy. For more severe problems, a family dentist will often refer you to a specialist.
What is a Pediatric Dentist
Like all dentists, pediatric dentists attend four years of dental school in addition to receiving a bachelor’s degree. Unlike other dentists, pediatric dentists undergo an additional two to three years of training. The specialty training teaches them how to deal with children’s behavior, make kids feel comfortable, and treat the unique dental needs and issues of children. Pediatric dentists also receive training and qualifications for treating children with special needs. More Info.
Pediatric dentist offices also tend to revolve around children. They have a play area, they use smaller tools that look more kid-friendly, and they are great at explaining dental procedures and terms to their patients. Because pediatric dentists only treat children, their experience enables them to quickly identify issues unique to children, and help solve those issues, as well.
While a family dentist can certainly care for your child’s teeth and help prevent cavities, they cannot provide the same specialized care your child would receive at a pediatric dentist. In the same way that you would take a child to visit a pediatrician, we always recommend taking your child to a pediatric dentist. More Info
Making the Final Decision
If you’re still not sure which is best for your child, the best thing you can do is schedule a consultation. Speak with a quality pediatric dentist and a family dentist, visit their offices, and see which feels right to you.
Most are happy to schedule a consultation, which will give you and your child a good feel for each option. Taking this step can give you confidence that your child will have a great experience at the dentist.
If you are in the Greeley, Windsor, or Eaton, CO area, then Wild for a Smile Children's Dentistry is a great place to investigate the benefits of pediatric dentistry.