No matter their children’s age, parents always want the best possible healthcare providers for their families. In Connecticut, parents are fortunate to have many good candidates, but the process can quickly become overwhelming.
This blog provides a guide to comparing pediatric dental practices and choosing the best provider for your family.
Tip #1: Look At the Dentist’s Services
Check the practice’s list of dental services and procedures on their website. Ensure the office provides treatment for standard procedures, such as fillings, crowns, sealants, and fluoride treatments. Find out how many specialty services, like interceptive orthodontics, are available in-house and when you will need to take your children to a specialist.
Tip #2: Check for a Family-Friendly Practice
One of the best reasons to choose a pediatric dentist over a general dentist for your family is the availability of child-friendly amenities. Safe and thoughtful distractions like television, aquariums, and easily disinfected toys in the waiting area help young patients relax.
Tip #3: Look Into Technology Use
Many pediatric dentists offer updated technology to help their young patients receive quicker, more comfortable treatments. Many pediatric dentists, including New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry, offer nitrous oxide to take the edge off children’s anxiety and create a positive experience.
Tip #4: Check Out Reviews
We recommend looking at as many reviews as you can so you have a good idea about the practice’s reputation. A few negative reviews or poor star ratings may not mean much, but a larger number of detailed comments may have truth behind them. Use search engines and review sites to vet your candidate practices.
Tip #5: Talk to Friends and Family
If you have local family or friends, you already have an excellent resource for choosing the best pediatric dentist. Find out where your friends’ children go and ask the parents whether they have had positive experiences.
Tip #6: Look at Credentials
Professional licensing organizations and trade groups frequently have member biographies online. You can find background information for most pediatric dentists online.
Tip #7: Ensure You Find a Convenient Location
If you have to drive an hour to get to your child’s dentist, you may be better off choosing a practice closer to home, work, and school. Local practices are also more likely to participate in community organizations.
Tip #8: Check for Emergency Dental Care
Since children play vigorously, they are more prone to dental injuries than adults. If your prospective dental practice offers emergency care, find out whether they are open only during office hours or can take calls after hours and on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Dentistry
How often should my child see the dentist?
Most pediatric dentists recommend twice-yearly visits, beginning around age one and continuing throughout their lives. Pediatric dentists may ask to see young patients more frequently if they are at higher risk of tooth decay.
How old can a child be in a pediatric practice?
We enjoy seeing our patients from infancy through the teen years.
Our team at New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry wants to be your choice for an ideal practice. We look forward to introducing you to our advanced methods and time-honored patience and kindness. Please reach out to us with any questions or to schedule your child’s first appointment.