Finding the best children’s dentist for your child may be one of the most important decisions that you make as a parent. Keeping their child happy and healthy is at the top of any parent’s list. Children’s dentists take care of the smile and oral healthcare for your kiddos. Beginning with the initial visit, your child will begin to cultivate oral health habits that will last a lifetime. Finding the perfect dentist for you or your family might seem like a challenge, however, it need not be as difficult as it might seem. We have taken the time to put together a list of factors to consider when finding a dentist for your child. We hope that these tips help give you some guidance when making your decision and make your child’s experience the best one possible!

People often confuse children’s dentists with general dentists. Significant differences exist between the two. A children’s dentist specializes in the treatment of children. They learn techniques and tactics that specifically are used to make a child more comfortable and focus on the behaviors of children. Quite simply, they are best suited to the needs of a dental patient that is a child. Children’s dental offices tend to have an environment that is specifically welcoming for children. They are very proficient at explaining procedures to children to make them comfortable and understand well. Narrow your Google search to “children’s dentist” in order to find the right dentist for your child.

Children’s dentists can be located in many different locations, some of which can be inconvenient. We strongly suggest that when doing your research, you look for locations in your area. A short commute can be of help if the child is attending an appointment on a school day. A commute that is quick could also decrease any anxiety that your child might have en route to his or her visit. Therefore, when considering your children’s dentist, a location close to your home or place of work might be the best option for you.

If you know someone locally with small children, you may want to ask if they have a children’s dentist that they recommend. People are often very frank when it comes to their children’s dental or medical experiences. In addition, look online. There are many large corporate dentists online. However, if you take the time to sift through the listings, you can find a local dentist that will give your child the care he or she deserves.

It is a good idea to put together a list of the qualities and services that are provided by your ideal children’s dentist. Going through this list point by point is often overlooked but can be extremely helpful when choosing the best dentist. Qualities such as years of experience, availability, and personality are important factors that may sway your decision.

The overwhelming majority of children’s dentists offer a free consultation to new potential clients. This initial visit is a free visit that should cause little anxiety. It can be a very worthwhile investment in time in the long run. At this initial consultation, your child should be given the opportunity to tour the office. In addition, he or she will be able to meet the dentist and ask any questions that you or he or she may have.

After meeting with your child’s potential new children’s dentist, it is a good time to reflect on how the visit to the office made you and your child feel. What was the dentist like? Did everything meet or exceed your expectations? Was your child happy and comfortable throughout the visit? Was the commute ideal for you and your child? All of these factors are important considerations when considering who will be your child’s dentist going forward.

After you have made your decision regarding your child’s dentist, feel free to schedule your first appointment! One common option is to schedule a routine cleaning for your child’s first appointment with his or her new dentist. It is important for your kiddo to build a good foundation with his or her new dentist from the get-go. The initial appointment gives the new dentist an opportunity to collect valuable information about your child’s oral health as well as introduce them to their new office!

If you are looking for the right children’s dentist in Terre Haute, Wabash Valley Children’s Dentistry very well may be the right fit for you and your kiddo. Dr. Stewart has been practicing children’s dentistry in the Wabash Valley and surrounding areas for over 15 years. We are conveniently located in Terre Haute near Regional Hospital and many other landmarks and businesses. We invite you to set up a free consultation. Come by and meet our staff, view or facilities, and speak with Dr. Stewart. We look forward to being a part of your child’s dental care for years to come!