Who else wants to find the best dentist for you and your family? Left
Finding a good dentist for you and your family is not difficult. While it’s unpleasant to sit through dental checkups, poke around in your open mouth, drill and grind, there are ten very simple steps that virtually guarantee success. The first two tips are the ideal place to start. What type of dentist do you need? Do you need a special dentist for your children? Until you answer these fundamental questions, everything else is debatable.
I. What type of dentist do I need?
State Board licensed dentists in general practice are fully qualified to provide almost all aspects of dental care. General dentists often label themselves “cosmetic dentists” to indicate that they offer cosmetic dental treatment, or that a “family dentist” can treat your entire family. These designations are not officially recognized dental specialties. Dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association include endodontist (root canal), oral and maxillofacial surgeon (tooth extraction and oral surgery), orthodontist (braces and repositioning of teeth), pediatric dentist, or pediatric dentist (specializing in children and adolescents). , periodontist (care of gums and supporting tissues) and prosthodontists (specialists in restoration and rehabilitation).
If you have extreme symptoms, such as bleeding gums, constant jaw pain, or a severe toothache, it’s easy and automatic to assume that you need a dental specialist. While that may be true, most dental specialists require that you first see a general dentist for a complete dental exam and referral as needed.
If your general dentist determines that you need treatment that is outside his or her expertise, he or she must refer you to an appropriate specialist. Keep in mind that many general dentists actually perform some of the same treatments as dental specialists, such as wisdom tooth removal, root canals, and dental crown and bridge procedures.
Therefore, find a general dentist with whom you feel comfortable. Schedule regular visits and go ask your questions.
II. Do I need a special dentist for my children?
Depending on your family situation, you will decide between a general dentist or a children’s (pediatric) dentist. Although a pediatric dentist may be your best option for that special child, many general dentists are comfortable treating children with special health care needs. Talk to a dentist about your child’s condition to decide on the best dental home for your child.
Pediatric dentists specialize in caring for children’s teeth. After dental school, a pediatric dentist has an additional two to three years of training in children’s dentistry. This training includes treating children with special health care needs. Depending on your child’s needs, you may decide on a pediatric dentist.
Your child’s first visit should be on their 1st birthday. The dentist will discuss your child’s medical history with you: prenatal history, developmental history, and current condition. The dentist will ask questions to find out if your child is at low, moderate, or high risk for tooth decay and gum disease. This information is used to make a plan to help prevent mouth problems.
For babies and toddlers, the dentist can take a quick look at how your child’s teeth are growing and the condition of your mouth. As your child gets older, the dentist will take a closer look at the mouth, cleaning the teeth, and taking x-rays.
Babies and young children often sit on their parent’s lap or in a “knee-to-knee” position. A child may need more help staying relaxed and calm during treatment.
In some cases, conscious sedation (medicine given to your child to drink or given through an IV) is used. Calms your child down and keeps him awake and responsive. Along with the medication, a safety restraint system may be used to keep your child from moving or shaking. A common type is a papoose system: wrapping a child comfortably in a special blanket. This keeps your arms, legs, and head still so the dentist can work safely.
The dentist or hygienist should give you detailed instructions on how to care for your child’s teeth and mouth. He should practice brushing and flossing to feel comfortable. Brush at least twice a day.
Most children should see a dentist or dental hygienist twice a year. Your dentist may suggest that your child visit every 3 to 4 months.