Choosing a dentist for your child is a big decision. It’s important to make the right choice to provide your child with the best possible foundation for lifelong oral health. One of the biggest elements of that decision is choosing between a practitioner of general or pediatric dentistry.

Why is pediatric dentistry important? A pediatric dentist focuses exclusively on providing dental care for children. They know how to deal with the specific dental requirements of children, such as ensuring healthy development and identifying potential long-term issues.

Why a pediatric dentist will provide extra benefits for your child’s oral health.

There are many reasons why choosing a pediatric dentist is the right choice for your child. Below are some of the most important factors to consider when making your decision.

1. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating growing teeth and gums.

There’s a significant difference in how dental issues are diagnosed and treated between adults and children. Adults’ teeth and gums are fully developed and in their final positions. In contrast, children’s teeth and gums are still growing.

A pediatric dentist has the specific knowledge and experience to understand and treat growing teeth and gums. They evaluate your child’s teeth based on, not just their current condition, but also on what’s going to happen in the future.

This focus on development is key to providing the most effective dental care for your child. Many dental issues can be discovered in the early stages if a dentist applies the specific principles of pediatric dentistry. Early identification of dental conditions can make treatment options more effective, less invasive, and easier for your child.

2. Pediatric dentists help your child form good habits.

Having proper dental treatments and procedures as needed is an important part of healthy development. However, ensuring that effective oral health habits are instilled in your child is just as important.

A pediatric dentist is able to spot the signs of potential bad habits and help your child correct them. Thumb sucking is a prime example. This seemingly innocuous habit can actually cause long-term jaw development issues. A pediatric dentist can identify this issue and provide effective measures for correcting the behavior.

Dentistry for children also helps set your children up with positive habits for life. A pediatric dentist knows how to effectively encourage proper brushing and flossing, making them better able to help instill those habits in your children.

3. Pediatric dentists provide a comfortable and relaxed environment.

Visiting the dentist can be a stressful experience for children. Even those old enough to understand the importance of visiting the dentist can still find it intimidating. Dentistry for children provides a safe, comfortable atmosphere that makes dental exams and treatments easier for your child.

Pediatric dentists know how to work with children. They understand how to make exams, cleanings, and treatments as stress-free and comfortable as possible. Together with a carefully developed child-friendly atmosphere, this ensures that your child stays comfortable and relaxed.

4. Pediatric dentists have additional specialized training.

Pediatric dentists aren’t simply general dentists who have decided to treat children. They undergo additional training that prepares them for the experience and unique challenges of providing dentistry for children.

In general, this requires two to three years of additional specialty training on top of a general dentistry program. A pediatric dentist’s training includes a residency in which they gain experience working with infants, children, and teens under the supervision of a senior practitioner.

This specialized training means that your child will receive the best possible care for their unique dental needs. A pediatric dentist is better equipped to provide your child with the preventive care and other dental treatments they need to maintain good oral health.

5. Pediatric dentists can follow your child’s development.

Dental development is a long process that occurs in stages throughout childhood. By choosing a kids’ dentist near Plano, TX, to provide dental care while your child grows up, you’re ensuring that this development goes as smoothly as possible.

A pediatric dentist has the knowledge and experience needed to provide dental care during each stage, from performing an infant’s first exam to addressing the unique developmental needs of teenagers. This means that your child is receiving the specialized care they need from the very beginning.

The core focus of pediatric dentistry is to ensure healthy development. By following your child through each stage of development, a pediatric dentist can provide your child with a great foundation for lifelong oral health.

Pediatric Dentistry in Plano, TX

If you’re looking for a kids’ dentist near Plano, TX, to accompany your child through their development with quality care and effective treatments, you should reach out to Dr. Jeffrey C. Jaynes and his team.

Our pediatric dental practice will provide everything your child needs, including both preventative and restorative dentistry. Just contact our office today to book an appointment.