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You wouldn’t visit an optometrist if your knees hurt, right?
Just like other areas of health, dental care has its own specialists, and one of those is pediatric dentists.
Pediatric dentists focus exclusively on children’s oral health and understand the unique needs of growing smiles.
In this blog, we will discuss why a pediatric dentist is the best choice for your child’s dental care, why their specialized training makes a difference, and what you can expect when choosing one for your family.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Children’s dental care deserves the expertise of a pediatric dentist. With their unique training, child-friendly approach, and dedication to young smiles, pediatric dentists ensure your child’s oral health is in the best hands.
What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist specializes in the oral health of infants, children, and teenagers, providing care tailored to their unique dental needs.
They undergo additional training after dental school, focusing on the growth and development of children’s teeth, behavior management, and treatment for childhood dental issues, such as cavities, gum diseases, and injuries.
Pediatric dentists educate kids and their families on maintaining healthy dental habits, helping prevent future issues. Their offices are often designed to create a welcoming, fun environment to ease any dental anxieties kids may have.
Education and Training
Pediatric dentists complete specialized training that goes beyond standard dental care.
- Four years of dental school: Like general dentists, pediatric dentists complete dental school, gaining a foundation in oral health and treatment methods.
- 2 to 3 years of specialized pediatric training: After dental school, they pursue a pediatric dentistry residency, focusing on child psychology, development, and sedation dentistry to handle complex cases in children.
Child-Friendly Care
Our office is designed to make kids of all ages feel welcome with a vibrant New York City theme and thoughtful amenities.
We have a cozy infant room for our youngest patients, offering a quiet space where they can relax while we speak with parents about dental care.
In the lobby, we provide children’s books to prepare kids for their visit, and our patient bathroom even includes a little toilet and sink for toddlers.
Kids can enjoy watching their favorite movies during treatment, choose fun toothpaste flavors, and pick a prize from our treasure tower after their visit, making every dental experience enjoyable.
Why Pediatric Dentists Are Best for Handling Complex Issues
Pediatric dentists undergo extensive training specifically focused on the challenges and complexities of treating young patients.
They receive additional education that includes training in child growth and development, pediatric oral health issues, and behavior management.
This equips them to skillfully assess and treat a wide range of conditions—from complex tooth extractions to dental trauma management.
For complex procedures, pediatric dentists are also trained in multiple sedation methods tailored to children’s safety and comfort:
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas): For mild procedures, nitrous oxide can help your child relax without losing full awareness, making their experience comfortable and anxiety-free.
- Oral sedation: This option is often used for children who may need a bit more assistance to stay calm. It allows them to remain awake but fully relaxed during longer or more complex treatments.
- IV sedation: For extensive or complex procedures, IV sedation offers a deeper level of relaxation and is carefully monitored by the dental team to ensure safety and comfort.
Benefits of a Pediatric Dentist That Accepts Medicaid
Medicaid can cover a wide range of pediatric dental services, including regular checkups, fluoride treatments, emergency care, and more.
A pediatric dentist who accepts Medicaid makes comprehensive dental care accessible to all children, regardless of their families financial situation.
How to Choose a Pediatric Dentist
When choosing a pediatric dentist, consider the following:
- Check qualifications: Look for a dentist with certified pediatric training and experience in dental procedures for children. A ‘kids dentist’ is not the same as a ‘pediatric dentist.’
- Visit the dental office: Ensure the environment is welcoming, child-friendly, and equipped for kids’ dental needs.
- Ask about sedation dentistry: Sedation options can make complex treatments manageable and comfortable for young patients.
- Read reviews: Positive experiences from other parents can be a strong indicator of the level of care provided.
| Note: Dr. Henry Martinez has hospital privileges at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, which allows him to perform extensive dental procedures in a hospital setting when necessary. He also provides compassionate care for children with special needs, to ensure all kids receive the attention and care they deserve. |
The Benefits of Regular Pediatric Dental Visits
Pediatric dentists recommend routine exams and cleanings every six months to monitor oral health. Here are some benefits:
- Early detection of issues: Regular visits help catch tooth decay and other problems early.
- Personalized preventative care: From fluoride treatments to other preventative procedures, each visit is designed to meet your child’s unique needs.
- Education on oral hygiene: Pediatric dentists teach kids and parents how to care for their teeth, from brushing and flossing to healthy eating habits.
Partner With Us For a Lifetime of Happy Smiles
Regular visits are one of the best ways to keep your child’s smile healthy and confident as they grow.
With specialized care designed just for kids, a comfortable, friendly environment, and a focus on preventative care, a pediatric dentist can make all the difference in your child’s dental health.
To book an appointment at our pediatric dental office in Phoenix, call (602) 935-7427 or complete the online inquiry form.
