Picking a dentist for your loved ones is a decision you must take seriously. Some parents choose a family dentist to see their family members at once. Although going to a family dentist can work for many families, some situations require a Cumming, GA pediatric dentist. If you want to know the differences between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist, keep reading:
Reasons Your Child Must Go to a Pediatric Dentist
As with doctors, dentists can specialize in various fields. While some dentists concentrate on root canals, others focus only on gum care, and a few work with kids. A pediatric dentist focuses exclusively on caring for the teeth of babies, small children, and teenagers. Not all licensed dentists have the patience to handle children. A pediatric dentist is an experience in the needs of children.
Family Dentist vs. Pediatric Dentist
Family dentists offer dental care throughout several life stages. But they do not have the additional years of training undergone by a pediatric dentist. A family dentist may have a basic understanding of the tooth and gum development of children; however, when things go wrong, they may not have enough training to handle them, and they may refer kids to a pediatric dentist who can complete more complicated treatments. In addition, family dentists may not be equipped to see an infection in-office. Babies require specialized equipment and tools that general and family dentists may not possess.
What to Expect from a Pediatric Dentist
A pediatric dentist performs the routine dental checkups and treatments that kids need to keep their mouths healthy. They specialized in the following:
- Routing dental checkups. In general, routine checkups with a pediatric dentist involve an in-office cleaning that gets rid of tartar and plaque on a child’s teeth. Also, the visit includes a dental exam that makes sure the teeth and gums of a child are developing normally. This also allows the dentist to spot and treat any issues.
- Tooth fillings. Dental cavities and tooth decay are common in kids. Cavities must be filled to restore the normal functioning of the teeth.
- Sealants. Dental sealants prevent cavity formation. A pediatric dentist will apply them to the teeth’s chewing surface.
- Braces consultations. A lot of pediatric dentists provide evaluation for orthodontic services. As they have extensive experience with developing mouths, pediatric dentists can better anticipate the progress of a child or detect new problems more quickly.
