The job of a childrens dentist is to promote good oral health habits from an early age, and ensure children maintain healthy smiles as they grow. The first dental appointment can set the tone for how your child views dental visits in the future – with excitement or dread. A great childrens dentist can help foster a positive relationship with dental care, establishing a lifetime of good oral health.

So, what should you look for in a great childrens dentist?

• A Great Childrens Dentist Should Offer a Bright, Welcoming Environment

First impressions are lasting impressions. If your child walks into their first appointment with their children’s dentist and finds it dark, clinical, and, well…totally adult, they’re likely to feel out of their depth.

That’s not to say that a childrens dentist must be painted in bright primary colours, with a pile of stuffed animals and kid’s music on the radio to be welcoming. Rather, it’s important that the reception area is welcoming, the staff have smiles, and there are children-sized chairs and amenities. Something to make them feel that they belong.

If they feel uncomfortable in the waiting room at the start of the visit, it’s likely that feeling will only get stronger when they enter the examination room.

• A Great Childrens Dentist Should Offer Age-Appropriate Services

There is some debate about what is better for a childrens dentist. A pediatric dentist who specializes in childrens teeth, or a family dentist who can treat patients of all ages. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children – they have specific training, tools, and techniques to use with children. This can be great for children with high dental anxiety, or complicated dental issues.

But the case for visiting a family dentist is equally strong. For one, pediatric dentists are rarer, so it can be difficult to find a good dentist and get an appointment. More importantly, visiting a family dentist ensures continuum of care. Your child won’t have to switch dentists at a certain age. They can keep visiting their trusted dentist and continue to receive appropriate dental care as they grow older. Most professional family dentists will have tools appropriate to treat patients of all ages.

Visiting a family dentist also makes it easier for parents to schedule appointments for the entire family.

• Great Childrens Dentists Have A Lot of Experience with Children

Yes, it sounds obvious, but not all dentists cater to children. Some general dentists may prefer working with adults, or even specialize in working with seniors. So, it’s important to ask about children’s services. Before choosing a family dentist or children’s dentist, visit their offices to see what supports they have for children. Ask friends who are parents for their reviews and recommendations. Talk to the staff and the dentist to get a sense of their experience and how they respond to children.

A great childrens dentist will make taking care of teeth fun, and will have a thorough knowledge of childrens dental needs.

• Accessibility is Key

Beyond the approach and procedures, when choosing a childrens dentist, you should also think logistics. Close parking, few or no stairs, hours that work for you. You don’t want to walk for blocks with a small child, and you probably don’t want to climb a lot of stairs with their little legs…or if you have a stroller or bags.  Whether it’s important to double-up on appointments (e.g., entire family at once) or you want to spread appointments out, you’ll want a dentist with the flexibility to provide appointment times to suit your needs.

• A Great Childrens Dentist is Patient with their Patients

Patience is the final characteristic to add to the list. Treating children takes extra patience and care. Sometimes extra time, to allow children to relax, to introduce them to the procedures, or to satisfy their seemingly unending curiosity. A great childrens dentist can talk to children without talking down to them. They can explain dental procedures in simple terms and engage them at their level.

Looking for a Great Childrens Dentist? Try Midland Bay Dental

Midland Bay Dental is a family dental office, providing professional, friendly, and expert dental services to individuals and families in the Midland, Ontario area. We have proudly treated patients in our community since 1974. If you are new to Midland, or are looking for a new dentist, we hope you’ll give us a try. Our offices are conveniently located at 516 Elizabeth Street, just east of King Street. Contact Midland Bay Dental at (705) 526-6441, or book an appointment with us online.

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