Written by Pamela Snyder, RDH
Why should you choose a pediatric Dentist? Is there even a difference between a pediatric dental office and a general dental office? All dentists attend four years of dental school after college. Some dentists choose to further their education and pursue a specialty degree. For pediatrics, it requires an additional two years of residency training for infants, children,teens and children with special needs. The skills they learn are then applied to the needs of children through their ever-changing stages of growth and development and in treating conditions and diseases unique to children and adolescents. Pediatric dentists are well versed not only in physical and dental changes but also the behavioral changes and milestones children make though out their lives.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child’s first dental visit between 12 to 18 months of age. Your first visit is more than just a check up and teeth cleaning. Your hygienist will review your child’s diet and make healthy recommendations. Brushing and flossing will be discussed and demonstrated and we will give you tips on making it a more pleasant experience for everyone. You must remember that your child may cry when you are brushing their teeth, but sometimes they cry when you are changing their diaper! Keep this in mind as you continue creating this healthy habit.
Please remember when it comes to a dental visit that children are not small adults. Children interpret and react in many different ways. They are not always able to be patient and cooperative. Many children become anxious in new surroundings. At Dr. Dr. Jeannine Wyke’s office we do everything in our power to make the visit a fun experience for your child and an educational experience for you as parents. Contrary to popular belief, we do not have some magic fairy dust to sprinkle and make it perfect but we do have many years of experience and your child’s best interest at heart. Going to the dentist is a lifetime commitment and in choosing a pediatric dentist you start your child on a happy and healthy path to great oral health.