When the time comes for baby’s first dental check up, you will want to consult a lansdowne Pedodontist, a dental professional who specializes in the care of children’s teeth. The development of your child’s oral health is dependent upon their Pedodontist just as their physical health is upon their Pediatrician. Educating your child on the proper way to brush and floss should being early! Your Pedodontist and the caring team at their office are there to help you learn how to teach your child about the importance of oral health.

Why go to a Pediatric Dentist

The special training Pediatric Dentists learn give them abilities to care for children on a level that general dentists may not practice. Young children can benefit from the environment of a pedo office. Performing the same procedures as a general dentist, gentle techniques help keep anxieties and fears at bay. The approaches used by Pedodontists appeal to children, especially those with special needs, when in an unfamiliar environment.

Educational Requirements for a Pediatric Dentist

A Pediatric Dentist completes dental school just as your general family dentist, however, they continue their education in a two to three year residency program where they focus to develop the specialized skills needed to care for young children whose teeth are in their developmental stages. Pedodontists also study child development and child psychology to ensure they have the tools they need to make children feel comfortable.

Pediatric Behavioral Guidance

To aid in calming fear and anxiety, specific behavioral guidance techniques are used according to each patient’s individual needs, taking into account their maturity level as well. Observing another child patient successfully navigating a cleaning or treatment by the Pedodontist could help your child see they have nothing to fear. Adjustments are made to meet the needs of each individual child.

• Positive reinforcement encourages children once they have allowed their pedodontist to perform procedures. Positive words can quickly make a child more comfortable experiencing new things, even those as simple as a cleaning.
• Tell-show-do has the dentist explain a procedure to the patient what will happen in language that the child understands and then showing them what will happen and the tools used. After these two steps, the procedure is performed.

Choosing the right Dentist

Consult your general dentist for some names when searching for your new Pediatric Dentist. Research the options and when calling offices, find out about their after hours emergency policy and what behavioral guidance methods they use, if any. The website for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists is also a good resource to see if someone might be right for your family. All children, especially those with special needs, may find the office of a Pedodontist easier to cope with as they are designed with the comfort of children in mind. Finding the right fit will help ensure your child is instilled with a positive knowledge regarding their dental health. It’s never too early to teach proper oral hygiene!

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