How to Search for a Pediatric Dentistry Specialist

Pediatric dentistry is a specialized profession. In fact, pediatric dentists have 2 or 3 years more training than traditional adult dentists. While it isn't essential for your child to visit a dentist who specializes in children's teeth, it is definitely a plus. This article will help you find a terrific pediatric dentistry specialist in your area.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Internet access

1. Wait until your child is old enough to see a pediatric dentistry specialist. Some parents take their children when the first tooth erupts, others wait until 1 year. At the very latest, bring your child to see the dentist before his third birthday.

2. Go to the website of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and use their search feature. Here, you can type your zip code into the site with a mile radius and it comes up with all the pediatric dentists in your area. The link is provided down below in the resources section.

3. Visit a few of the dentists before you make a real appointment for a cleaning and exam. Pediatric dentistry specialists are trained on how to handle baby teeth. This makes them experts on young teeth, but not necessarily experts on how to handle children. Make sure your child meets a couple of dentists to get a feel for their personalities.

4. Be present during the first cleaning and exam. Just because someone is a pediatric dentistry specialist doesn't mean you should trust them with your child. Stay in the room and make your presence known. Chances are, the dentist is a terrific person, but you never know that for sure.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to change dentists if you are not happy. Yes, you records will have to be moved, but it is worth it if you are unhappy.

Resources

• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

[Melanierose]

on 9/3/2008 Nice article.

[Cateeto]

on 9/3/2008 Good advice.

[oneloved]

on 9/3/2008 I am soooo glad there are Pediatric Dentists now! My parents took me to a guy who didn't have a clue how to handle kids except to say "quit moving!" and "open wider!" (my little mouth was as wide as it would go), and he scared the crap out of me! My kids will have a pediatric dentist who has a decent bedside manner and makes it a terror-free experience!

[Cherst1031]

on 9/3/2008 This is very important info on how to find a pediatric dentist, and it is especially important if the child has had health issues and has had to take many medications - those can cause dental issues. Great article!

[purrfect1969]

on 9/3/2008 Great tips, especially the one about changing dentists if you are not happy.