As a parent, you want to do what’s best for your child’s health. But with so many options all the time, it can be hard to always make the best decision. Just wandering down the snack aisle of the grocery store can be overwhelming!
The same challenges arise when it comes to your child’s dental health. There are general dentists, family dentists, and pediatric dentists — but which one is best for your kids?
Children’s Choice wants to make this decision an easy one. Pediatric dentists like ours are specially trained to work with kids. We give attention to everything from the atmosphere of the office to the equipment we use, making it ideal for children. Plus, pediatric dentists like Children’s Choice are trained to work with children with special needs.
Discover the difference between a general dentist, family dentist, and pediatric dentist, and how Children’s Choice shines when it comes to your child’s dental health.
What is the Difference Between a Dentist and a Pediatric Dentist?
For starters, general dentists only see adults. Family dentists see adults and children, too.
A pediatric dentist, or kids dentist like Children’s Choice, only sees children as patients. We specialize in working with children and have extra training, resources, and even tools that allow us to care for your child’s teeth.
When you go to a dentist for children like Children’s Choice, you’re taking your child to a dentist specifically trained for their needs rather than one who sees kids alongside adults. That means the dentist caring for your child is an expert at caring for patients exactly like them.
Pediatric Dentist Training
While both general dentists and pediatric dentists offer cleanings, fillings, and treatments, pediatric dentists are specially trained to work with kids.
A dental visit is different for children than it is for adults. Children require different dental care. Kids are more likely to develop cavities than adults, and pediatric dentists will be able to offer advice to prevent further tooth decay.
Pediatric dentists like our team at Children’s Choice have special pediatric dental training that prepares us to work with kids. We’ve gotten an education about the development of teeth from infancy to adolescence, so we know what to look out for and how to keep your child’s teeth healthy.
We also have the right tools. Because children’s mouths and teeth are smaller, they can require different or smaller tools than adults. Children’s Choice is equipped with the latest technology to keep your child’s smile in great shape.
To keep their teeth healthy between cleanings, kids require more education about how to care for their teeth. They might need things explained to them more simply than an adult. Pediatric dentists know what language is effective and have resources to help your child understand the importance of brushing and flossing.
All this training and experience has paid off: Children’s Choice has been earning awards for the best pediatric dentist and orthodontist since 2011. Children’s Choice earned BayAreaParent’s Family Favorite award for pediatric dentists and orthodontists every year from 2017 to 2020.
Pediatric Dentist: A Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
About 36% of adults have some fear or anxiety about going to the dentist. This can be caused by a lot of things — including a scary experience at the dentist as a child.
Children’s Choice aims to make every child feel comfortable at the dentist so they grow up without that fear!
We set your child up for success by providing a kid-friendly atmosphere. Our offices have colorful murals, games, and toys to make your children feel comfortable and help them associate the dentist with fun.
While you wait for your child’s appointment, you can play engaging games together — either a game on a tablet or a board game. We have children’s books and a play area specifically for infants and toddlers, too.
Your child can watch the latest family-friendly movies in the waiting room, as well as during their cleaning. This distracts them from some of the discomforts they might be feeling and helps them stay relaxed.
We know that some children do better with their parents present, while others do better alone. You know your child best, and we’re happy to accommodate either option.
Plus, your child will be more comfortable at the dentist when you’re more comfortable. We make the experience pleasant for parents, so you can rest assured that we’re taking great care of your child’s teeth.
If you need advice on how to help your child feel better about seeing the dentist, we have plenty of resources — just ask us at your child’s next appointment.
Care for Children with Special Needs
For some children, extreme anxiety over the dentist or special needs can require a different kind of care.
Many children with special needs may not be able to sit still long enough for a dental cleaning or may not be able to tolerate the experience of having a cavity filled.
Our team at Children’s Choice is educated in caring for children with special needs. We’re happy to offer suggestions for how to keep your child comfortable and accommodate your requests.
Children’s Choice also offers sedation for kids who need an extra step to feel comfortable and keep their teeth clean. We offer nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) as well as Total Intravenous Anesthesia (or TIVA).
Both are safe for children. If your child needs sedation, we bring in an experienced anesthesiologist to deliver the medication and monitor your child during the visit.
If you think sedation might be right for your child, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have. Give us a call or speak to us at your next visit to discuss your options.
Visit Children’s Choice, the Best Pediatric Dentist in California
To help your child feel comfortable at the dentist and build healthy, lifelong oral habits, bring them to see a pediatric dentist.
Our pediatric dentists have the special training and tools to take care of your child’s teeth. We create a welcoming, kid-friendly environment that helps kids feel comfortable rather than fearful of the dentist’s chair.
If you’re in California, Children’s Choice is the premier kid’s dentist. We have locations all across the state where we provide preventative care, diagnostic care, sedation, restorative care, oral surgery, and Invisalign.
Schedule your child’s appointment at Children’s Choice today >