When you think of your last trip to the dentist, do you grimace or grin? While you may not feel strongly either way, it might be a completely different scenario for your kids. Good dental health is essential, and there’s no better way to ensure your kids’ teeth remain healthy than by fostering a good attitude about visiting the dentist while they’re still young. Choosing a great kids dentist Jacksonville can help with this.
Do You Need a Pediatric Dentist?
One of the first things you should consider is whether the practice you choose provides specialized pediatric dentistry. While most dentists can care for anyone, it’s a great idea to find a dentist who focuses on kids. Pediatric dentists are highly trained in how to deal with children in what could potentially be a nerve-wracking experience, and they are experts in pediatric dental health. A good pediatric dentist should be described as the following:
- Friendly
- Calm, but maybe a little funny
- Able to communicate well with children
- Patient
Does Ambiance Matter?
Just as it’s important to ensure your child’s dentist is friendly, you should also make sure the office is inviting. Adult dental offices can be stark and tame, but you’ll find pediatric dental offices are often colorful and aimed at making kids feel welcomed. Many dental office websites have photographs online to provide a glimpse into their ambiance. In your research, check to see if the office looks like it will make your child feel at ease. You’ll be thrilled to see many pediatric offices have toys and murals of fun animals. These touches may help make your child less fearful of dental visits.
What Services Should Be Offered?
Just like when you go to the dentist, your child’s visit should consist of standard dental hygienic practices. While a child’s first visit may likely just be focused on introducing them to dentistry, a kids’ dentist should offer X-rays, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sedation. You should also find out what kind of emergency care is available.
You should have virtually no trouble picking out a kids dentist when keeping these things in mind. Making the right choice could help encourage a lifelong healthy attitude toward dental visits.