During the early stages of development, children go through many natural processes which determine how well their teeth develop. A child’s teeth are more prone to fracture and tooth decay, which is why most dental experts recommend that children have dental check-ups at least twice a year.
However, we all know how stressful dental visits can be for young children. So how do you go about choosing the right dentist for your child? What are the factors to consider before making your choice? Read on for tips on how to find the best family dentist for your loved ones.
Does your Dentist Know How to Work with Children?
A good family dentist not only has medical expertise, but also highly developed social skills which allow them to create a comfortable environment and deal with distress, should a young patient experience it. Children can struggle to express themselves effectively, and being unable to communicate properly when experiencing pain can lead to a lot of stress. Paediatric dentists in particular have the ability to control the tone of their voice, their facial expressions and choice of words when calming a patient down. Family dentists know which signs to look for and how to speak to children to understand exactly what they are feeling.
License and Certification
While this is very uncommon in today’s day, practicing dentistry without a valid license is a serious offence. Check the reception area of the dental clinic to see their licenses, and feel free to ask at the reception area if you have any questions about certification.
Visit Multiple Dentists
Before choosing a dentist for your child, it helps to make a checklist of specific aspects that you feel are important to you. You know your child better than anyone else, so you may have questions that only you might think to ask. Talk to the clinic about specific concerns you have about your child and evaluate their responses. By visiting multiple clinics, you will get an idea of which ones are passionate and have the expertise required to expertly treat children.
Evaluate the Environment at the Clinic
A good dental clinic is clean, sterilised periodically and designed in a way that is soothing and comfortable. At King Street Dental, we believe that the success of a dental check-up requires that a patient feel at ease the moment they walk in, well before they sit in the dentist’s chair. The waiting area should feel soothing, the staff should be moving around the area efficiently, calmly, and it helps to have good reception staff who understand their role in welcoming patients into the waiting area. A children’s dentist will pay special attention to the interior, making it child-friendly with decorations and books in the reception area.
Listen to what Other Parents Have to Say
Look up reviews of multiple clinics online to see what other parents have to say about their experience. If the clinic you’re considering has been in the community for a while, speak to parents and clients at the clinic itself to find out more.
Quality Dentistry for Kids and Families
Choosing a dentist for your child is never an easy process. When it comes to family dentistry, taking your time to make a choice is always recommended. If you have questions about dentistry for kids, call King Street Dental today, or visit our clinic to meet us in person.