Why Should I Take My Kid to a Pediatric Dentist?

Most parents are under the impression that a family dentist can treat their children. While there might not be anything inherently wrong with that, there are certain distinct advantages taking them to a pediatric dentist provides. Children have unique psychological and physical needs which are very different from adults. Pediatric dentists have extensive training in handling the emotional and special health-related needs of children. If you’re having a hard time choosing a primary dentist for your kids, don’t worry. Here is a blog post where pediatric dentists in Brampton who’ve outlined the major reasons why you should choose one for your child. Reasons You Should Take Your Children to a Pediatric Dentist

1. Make First Visits Stress-Free

Generally, it's difficult to introduce children to dentists as they get nervous around the equipment they see and sounds they hear. A trained pediatric dentist is prepared for this and knows how to make their patients feel comfortable on their first visit. They speak about their practice and see how the kid responds to their new surroundings. Some pediatrics may even avoid involving first-timers in any kind of procedure altogether ensuring their patients look forward to returning.

2. Use Kid-Friendly Equipment

Although there’s absolutely nothing wrong in using standard equipment, it's better that pediatrics use smaller equipment that is specifically designed to be used on kids. Additionally, they can help ease your kid’s anxiety and stress regarding the exam by introducing one thing at a time. This helps them get used to the often “scary-looking” and complex equipment and guarantees they don’t feel overwhelmed in any way.

3. Can Keep Children Calm

Most children are scared of dentists as it’s a new experience for them and they don’t quite understand what’s happening. Pediatrics understand their behaviour and know how to make them feel relaxed and calm, even on their first visit. Since they work with them day in and day out, they are familiar with common concerns specific to their little mouths. This allows them to tailor the approach they take towards the patients and target their problem areas accordingly. They’re also trained to treat children with special needs from infancy through their teen years.

4. Are Trained to Treat Developing Gums and Teeth

Pediatrics receive specialized training on how to care for growing gums and teeth. They have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle various issues which threatens the young one’s oral health. They can treat a child’s tooth decay, cavities, and over-retained baby teeth among other issues. They are qualified to give sedation to youths who are undergoing any intense dental treatment and procedure.

5. Are Great Habit Counselors

Thumb sucking and teeth grinding are habits among many others that are common in younger children and are difficult ones to break out of. Pediatric dentists can talk to your child and teach him/her about the harm these habits can cause. They can suggest ways on how to get rid of these, and in turn, teach them to take better care of their oral health. There are some really good pediatric dentists in Brampton. Visit one of them to meet qualified professionals to get tips on how to better take care of your child’s oral health.

6. Have Toys and a Bright Décor

Pediatric dentists’ offices are generally decorated with bright colours and have games and toys in their waiting room to make the children feel more at home while they wait. Many practices play popular children’s cartoons to keep them distracted during exams too. They may hand out small toys or stickers to help build the child’s level of comfort. Moreover, when a child sees other children having a positive experience, they tend to feel more relaxed and stress-free.

7. Encourage Healthy Habits

A pediatric dentist can introduce your child to responsibility. Though they are there to help when needed, it’s important for children to take the necessary steps required to look after their gums and teeth. Your child can learn about what may happen if they eat too many sweets and how they can avoid it too. No matter what happens, your child will earn the rewards or face the consequences for their oral health care which will mature their behaviour accordingly. As a parent, you will obviously do everything in your power to keep your child’s teeth healthy. Furthermore, a child is more likely to keep their teeth clean when they’ve been praised for it. But sometimes, even parents can use an extra voice of encouragement and help your children realize the importance of good oral health care.