Pediatric dentists, also known as pedodontists, not only love working with teeth but also love working with children and people with special needs. This, along with their additional training, makes them ideal choices for parents seeking regular dental care for their children. There are many reasons parents should consider selecting a pediatric dentist for their child’s dental care.
If you are a parent seeking a dental home for your child, our team can help. Pediatric dentistry is available at Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry in Reston and the surrounding area. We offer a range of services geared toward children. Call us at (703) 391-8800 to learn more.
A pediatric dentist has graduated from dental school, attended a specialized pediatric dentistry residency, and been board-certified in pediatric dentistry. A pediatric dental residency generally lasts two to three years. During the residency, pediatric dentists undergo training specific to working children’s small mouths and use specific, child-friendly technologies. They also can provide certain forms of anesthesia to children.
A major part of a pediatric dentist’s job involves providing education to both parents and their children about maintaining the health of their teeth and the structures of the mouth. It is very important to promote good oral hygiene early on in life. Studies show that poor dental health negatively affects a child’s school performance.
Pediatric dentists can teach children tips and tricks to help them succeed in taking care of their teeth. Pediatric dentists can also help educate parents about childhood habits that may influence the growth and development of a child’s teeth and mouth structures, such as using a pacifier, thumb-sucking, or nail-biting.
A pediatric dentist’s office tends to look much different than that of a general dentist. Pediatric dental offices will often be bright and colorful or decorated with specific themes that aim to make dental visits fun, inviting, and less intimidating. Many pediatric dental offices offer prizes at the end of each visit as an incentive for children to stay engaged and optimistic.
Pediatric dental offices may also have televisions incorporated into their experience, such as in the waiting room or even in exam rooms. Since pediatric dentistry stays very age-specific, many offices will have dedicated office furniture and equipment specifically made to suit a child’s size.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist in Reston, VA
Pediatric dentists genuinely enjoy working with children, youth, and people with special needs. Pedodontists remain passionate about establishing good habits to avoid the development of tooth decay or gum disease, and they enjoy helping their patients with their changing needs as they grow older. Pediatric dentists stay highly motivated. Since they have undertaken two to three extra years of dental education to become pediatric specialists, their enthusiasm remains evident.
Q. What type of special training do pediatric dentists receive?
Q. What kind of education do pediatric dentists provide to patients?
Q. What does a pediatric dentist’s office look like?
Q. What do pediatric dentists like about their job?
Q. What kind of extra training does a pediatric dentist undergo?
After general dental school, pediatric dentists receive two to three additional years of training. This extra training includes advanced education about diagnostic procedures and surgical training geared toward working with the small structures of a child’s mouth. Pediatric dentists may also receive additional training within the following areas according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists:
Q. When should a child start visiting a dentist?
A. According to a report published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should establish a dental home by the age of one. Some dental professionals recommend the first dental visit be by one year or six months after the first tooth becomes visible. Following this guideline establishes good oral care early on, helping prevent cavities or gum disease development.
Q. How often should a child see a pediatric dentist?
A. Children should see a dentist about as often as adults. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a visit for a routine check-up every six months. Visit frequency may be different depending on a child’s specific needs.
Q. Can a pediatric dentist give sedation to a child?
A. Yes. Pediatric dentists have additional training that makes them certified to help their patients tolerate treatments more easily using sedative medications. Pediatric dentists commonly use nitrous oxide sedation, but other methods are available.
Q. Does a pediatric dentist only see children?
A. A pediatric dentist may see more than just children. The majority of their patients will be children. However, they are also trained to see patients who have special health care needs.
Q. How does one find a pediatric dentist?
A. The most popular method is word-of-mouth. Parents can get recommendations from friends, family, or their child’s pediatrician. The internet is another excellent resource. It allows parents to read online reviews of pediatric dentists in the area.
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
Routine visits to a pediatric dentist can be just as critical to maintaining a child’s health as regular visits with a medical pediatrician. Parents interested in pursuing pediatric dentistry can learn more by contacting our team at 703-391-8800 today.
If you live in the Reston area, call 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.
