Pediatric Dentists, or Pedodontists, are specifically trained to provide dental care for infants, toddlers, school-age children, and adolescents. In addition to completing dental school requirements for their doctorate of dentistry, they are also required to attend an additional 2-3 years of child-specific training. Much of this additional training is in child psychology, which enables a pediatric dentist to connect with children in an effective, gentle, and non-threatening manner.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends children visit a pediatric dentist at around age one, or at about six months after the emergence of their first tooth. This may seem early however, there are many valid reasons to follow the advice:

• To discuss/ask questions about eating habits (be they nursing, bottle feeding, etc.)
• To establish a positive experience with the dentist
• To learn best practices for establishing a positive home oral care regimen
• To determine if the child will be at risk for developing cavities
• To discuss/learn strategies to eliminate unwanted oral habits (e.g., finger-sucking)
• To receive preventative treatments such as fluorides and sealants
• To assess the development of the child’s teeth and jaws
• In addition to the specialized oral health care your child will receive from a pediatric dental office, it’s also a pretty fun place to visit. A pediatric dental office is typically decorated in child-friendly themes with toys and other fun-filled ways to entertain youngsters in the waiting and exam rooms. All of this is purposeful with the intent to positively relate with children.

Should my child see a family dentist or a Pediatric Dentist?

A family dentist, like a general dentist, is trained to treat patients of all ages, although sometimes they specify the ages they will see. By all means, a family dentist is well qualified to treat your child’s dental needs.

The decision to take your child to a pediatric dentist is yours alone to make. The Children’s Dental Center hopes you consider our practice, in Fishers, Indiana, for your child’s oral care and we look forward to many years of making their care a positive and enjoyable experience.

To schedule an appointment, or to ask additional questions, please call us at 317-854-5645.