5 Must-Know Tips For Parents When Choosing a Pediatric Dentist
Is your child due for their first dental checkup? Here’s what all parents should consider when choosing the right pediatric dentist for their child.
It can be tricky to choose a pediatric dentist for your child when it comes down to it — where do you start? Fortunately, there are ways to maximize your chances of getting a great dentist for your child.
If you’re tired of looking around for a dentist and not having any luck, just follow our five tips and you’re sure to find one in no time!
1. Consult Fellow Parents
Sometimes, it can be as simple as this. Maybe your child has friends with older siblings, or you have relatives with older children. It’s likely that at least one person you know will be able to recommend somebody.
Speaking to a receptionist or visiting a website or social media page won’t always give you the full story. Parents who’ve seen the dentist in action can give you the lowdown, and you’ll be able to trust them too.
2. Check Reviews
As well as asking friends and relatives, have a look at some reviews. Check sites like Yelp and even Facebook to see what people have to say about various dentists you might be considering. You can check dentists and practices offering the specific services you’re after too, like pediatric laser dentistry.
However, remember that not all reviews will be entirely truthful. Be mindful that some businesses will pay for fake positive reviews — your best bet is finding fair, honest advice that is frank and realistic.
3. Ask a Dental School
You can visit your local dental school, as they may well be able to recommend somebody. They’re likely to have the best knowledge of local dentists and as a result, potentially know the right dentist for you.
While on the subject, you could allow your child to have treatment carried out at the dental school too. Even though the person seeing your child might be inexperienced, they’ll be under close supervision and be determined to do a great job.
4. Arrange a Consultation
If there are a couple of different dentists or practices you’re considering, why not arrange to make appointments for consultations?
Here, you can gauge how your child feels in the setting and with each dentist, and evaluate the dentist too. If you’re unimpressed with a dentist, you can simply discount them from your list.
5. Evaluate Different Dentists
Maybe you’ve decided on a practice. However, there might be a few pediatric dentists on offer to choose from. One dentist might just be a better fit for you and your child than another — even if they’re equally qualified and indistinguishable on paper.
Don’t write off younger dentists — they may have children in their own lives and be able to discuss the latest TV show or craze with your child. Likewise, an older dentist might be particularly experienced in dealing with an issue that’s relevant to you and your child. Take the time to consider all of your child’s potential dentists.
Settling on a Pediatric Dentist
Taking these tips on board, you should be able to find the right pediatric dentist for your child. Ask around — including getting opinions of friends and family — and visit practices before you make any final decisions.
Looking for more advice on managing your child’s health? Check out our other posts!