Does your child need a childrens dentist?

As parents, we try do to everything we can to make sure our children stay happy and healthy. One of the best things that we can do to ensure our children stay healthy is maintaining good oral hygiene. It can seem daunting and even impossible to get our children to brush and floss, but it is important to instill this in a child from a very young age. Deciding who to trust our children’s teeth to can be a very difficult decision to make. Should we take them to a childrens dentist or a general dentist?

What is the difference between a childrens dentist and a general dentist? A childrens dentist receives special training (typically two extra years) beyond dental school. They are trained specifically on the needs of children. A general dentist does not receive any special training pertaining to children only, but many have experience in treating children’s needs.

It is important to make an informed decision on what is best for your child’s needs, but it does not necessarily mean that seeing a childrens dentist is the best option for your family. There are many conveniences to seeing a general dentist. Typically, if you see a general dentist your entire family can be seen by the same dentist. Everyone can be seen at one location. It is wonderful, because you don’t have to be referred out to specialists all over the city. You will not have to worry about coordinating several schedules to make sure your family has beautiful smiles.

Choosing a general dentist means convenience for the patient. One of the biggest benefits of a general dentist is that you can get first-rate dental care all within one group. This means that if needed, you can bring your child in for their first check-up, while you are receiving treatment for the toothache you have been experiencing. You could also set up a consultation for you teenager for Invisalign braces and your spouse could begin a complete smile make-over. This is the advantage of seeing a general dentist, they can treat everyone! Your family can develop a relationship with your dental team.

There are many great benefits to seeing a general dentist, but it is important that you look at what is best for your child. A childrens dentist can provide great knowledge to parents with children that have special dental needs. Whichever decision you make, the most important thing is that your child receives the proper education and home care coaching on maintaining good oral hygiene. A good dentist will educate both the child and their parent on what steps to take to ensure they keep their smile healthy. The entire team will do whatever it takes to make your child’s dental experience wonderful!

Thomas L. Anderson and Associates is ready to welcome you and your children to our dental practice. We provide superior service to patients of all ages. We have three conveniently located dental offices in the Kansas City Metro Area. Please contact us today to become part of our dental family!