Pediatric dentists have specialized training in the unique dental needs of children. After graduating from dental school, a pediatric dentist goes on to complete two to three years of additional education, so there’s no one more qualified to take care of your child’s smile. If you’re looking for the best pediatric dentist for your family, here are some factors to consider.
Think About the Basics
Before you start looking more closely at each candidate, narrow down your search by eliminating practices that are too far from your home, don’t have hours that work for your family, don’t accept your dental insurance, or don’t offer all of the services your child needs. While it may not seem like a big deal to drive 45 minutes twice a year to go to a fantastic pediatric dentist, it will be a big deal if you have to make that drive every few weeks when your child needs braces.
Ask for Recommendations
Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors. Do they have a pediatric dentist that they love? What procedures have their children had? What was the experience like? Online reviews are certainly helpful as well, but nothing compares to a word-of-mouth recommendation from someone you trust.
Check Their Credentials
Certainly credentials aren’t the be-all, end-all when it comes to finding the best pediatric dentist for your child, but they do indicate that the doctor in question has a certain level of expertise and knowledge, which is important. At Tender Smiles 4 Kids, our doctors’ credentials include being selected as a Top Dentist by New Jersey monthly, leadership roles in professional organizations, board certifications, and prestigious residency programs.
Look at Their Technology
Although it’s always a good idea to ensure that any dentist you see uses current technology rather than outdated equipment, this is especially true for pediatric dentists because newer technologies make dental care safer and more comfortable for children.
We offer laser dentistry at Tender Smiles 4 Kids, which allows us to treat cavities and correct tongue tie without anesthetic shots and our digital radiographs emit less radiation than traditional x-rays. Our doctors embrace the latest techniques and technologies to ensure that your child’s visits to our office are positive and trauma-free.
Make Sure They’re a Good Fit
Once you have a pediatric dentist in mind, give their office a call or see if you can set up a time to visit. Your child will be seeing their dentist for many years and it’s important to get a feel for the practice. Ask yourself:
- Is the office kid-friendly? Will your child feel excited about going there? Is it clean and modern, or outdated with visible wear and tear?
- Are the staff and doctors warm and welcoming?
- Are you comfortable with the practice’s policies and procedures? Some pediatric dental practices don’t allow parents in the exam room even for infants and toddlers; others will not provide sedation beyond nitrous oxide.
- If you have a child with special needs, how will this practice accommodate them?
Schedule an Appointment at Tender Smiles 4 Kids
We’d love to welcome you and your children to our pediatric dental practice. Tender Smiles 4 Kids has locations in Freehold, North Brunswick, Edison, and Roselle. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.