Straight Teeth in Less Time
Pediatric Dentists: Finding Good Help In Your Area
Lois Murray
Every parent knows that a trip to the dentist can quickly turn from a dream to a nightmare in seconds flat. Children may not understand everything that is happening in a dentist's office, and are more likely than adults to have a hard time. Before giving up on your child's smile, here are a few tips on how to find a competent pediatric dentist in your area.
Ask For Referrals. Your friends, family, and other parents from your child's school will likely have some good referrals for you. If nothing else, they may help you to be aware of what places in your area should be avoided. Start a list of potential pediatric dentists in your area and then whittle them down as you find out more information.
Check Online. There are several websites online that can help you find high quality pediatric dentists in your area. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, for example, offers an online tool where you can enter your zip code and they will show you quality dentists within so many miles of your home. This can be a wonderful tool, though it should be noted that just because these dentist offices are near your home, they may not be covered by your insurance.
Ask Your Insurance. Which brings us to another tool for finding a good pediatric dentist, asking your insurance for suggestions. Most dental insurance plans have specific dentists that they are contracted with so that quality care will not break the bank. Printing out the list of options they give you will help you on your search for a dentist for your children.
If there are no pediatric dentists in your area, ask your own dentist for suggestions on where you can take your children. Some dentists have no problem seeing children, while it may make others uncomfortable.
Once you think you have found a good pediatric dental service, take your child in for a visit. Afterwards, evaluate your experience. Was your child seen promptly? Were procedures explained to the child, and compassion for their nerves shown? Did the dentist interact well with your child? Was their technology up to date and the office clean? Was your child offered a toy or gift as part of their dental experience? This is not necessary, but it can go a long way towards helping your child feel more comfortable. Was it an overall positive visit for your child? If not, check other dentists from your list.
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I had braces when I was a kid. Back then, you had to wear those metal wires and rubber bands for what seemed like forever. When I saw that my child’s teeth were going to be crooked like mine, I was dreading the years of braces and orthodontist appointments and limited diets that I saw stretching ahead of us. I was pleased to find out that braces today are very different from braces when I was a kid. They don’t need to be worn for nearly as long, and they aren’t as intrusive, either. My daughter got braces that can barely be seen, and she can remove them when she eats, so she doesn’t have to give up her favorite foods. I was so impressed that I started a blog to talk about modern day tooth straightening techniques. Braces have come a long way.