A general or family dentist is one that has completed 4 years of dental school and possibly a residency in general dentistry afterwards. A pediatric dentist has the same 4 years of dental school but then receives further training by completing a 2-3 year residency in pediatric dentistry. During residency, the candidate receives specialized training in the management of dental needs of children of all ages; both well children, and those that are medically compromised. Throughout the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, you will find only about eighty pediatric dental residency programs. Each program takes anywhere from 1 to 10 residents each year. Securing a place in a pediatric dental residency after graduation from dental school can be difficult as there is intense competition to get into these programs.

Once admitted, the pediatric dental resident will spend many hours in academic study as well as hands-on clinical training. The pediatric dental residency programs teach students about child psychology and clinical management of children. Training also includes child-related pharmacology, radiology, how to care for patients with special needs, conscious sedation, general anesthesia, and the management of oral/facial trauma. The pediatric dentist is an optimal choice for children of all ages. A pediatric dentist is comfortable and experienced in the phases of a child’s oral development and their transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. Preventative care or regular dental check-ups from a pediatric dentist are geared toward the individualized needs of young patients. The pediatric dental office itself can also put a child at ease while visiting the dentist. Everything from the size of the dental chairs and instruments, to the pictures on the wall are often designed with a child in mind.

If a child does need treatment for dental decay or even for preventative treatment such as sealants, a pediatric dentist is well trained in treating the child during what can sometimes be a difficult experience for them. Due to their additional training, pediatric dentists have the ability to offer sedation in the office and general anesthesia in a hospital setting for very young children, those with extensive dental needs, or those who need extra help relaxing during their restorative appointments.

When it comes to the oral care of children, pediatric dentists certainly have their work cut out for them. The treatment of children poses many challenges in regard to proper care. Many kids will become uncooperative due to fear and anxiety. In addition, many children tend to be uncomfortable in general practice offices that cater to adults due to the dull and sterile atmosphere. In cases such as these, many parent choose to finding an expert who knows just how to cater to children’s needs.

The AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) defines these professionals as oral care specialists who focus on the treatment of children. The agency typically have a child-friendly along with a staff who are trained in handling with small children’s fears, effectively alleviating a lot of the concerns and fears children have regarding dentist visits. These specialists are able to treat kids from newborns to early teenagers.

Pediatric dentists must go through the same training as that of any other oral care provider. Once completed, three to four years of additional training are required to prepare students in their specialty. This training involves hands-on practice with children in addition to theoretical and technical advances. Students are also trained to deal with special needs children who may be mentally or physically challenged.

While most general practices have no problem treating children, there are some key benefits found in working with a pediatric specialist. These physicians are trained to focus on instilling quality dental habits, enabling them to avoid more extensive problems and treatments once they reach adulthood. This also helps to alleviate dental phobias that many people experience in adulthood due to their dental experience as children.

Children should generally begin attending appointments around age one. These initial visits will allow the dentist to treat any potential issues early on, while gaining the trust of the patient at an early age. Fluoride treatments and sealants will be applied to the teeth as they erupt, and cavities will be treated accordingly. Children may also be evaluated in regard to potential orthodontic problems around age 7. Specialists can help to educate children on proper home care techniques as well.

If you are interested in finding a specialist you deals with the oral health of children, the best place to begin is by talking to your current dentist. Many practitioners have a vast knowledge of other caregivers in the area, and should be more than happy to recommend one.