Your pediatric dentist in Kansas City recommends that all children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or no later than six months after their first tooth comes in. But many parents, especially those with their first child, wonder if kids really need to see a pediatric dentist. From our experience, we often find that most children do better in an environment that’s specifically designed for kids and with a dentist who has the advanced training to cater to kids’ individual needs. 

How is a Pediatric Dentist Different? 

In addition to the traditional four years of dental school, pediatric dentists have even more years of training and education than general dentists. This training can include areas outside of dental treatment such as child psychology and growth and development, making them the perfect choice for children, especially those who may be nervous or have special needs. Pediatric dentists have the skills to know how to calm a nervous child and can even make a visit to the dentist fun. Additionally, your pediatric dentist in Kansas City is trained to specifically recognize and diagnose dental problems that usually affect infants, toddlers, and teens. 

Pediatric dental offices are also usually unique in that they are often designed with kids in mind. From books to toys and even decor that appeals to kids, many pediatric dentists will go above and beyond to help your little one feel safe and comfortable.

How to Choose the Best Pediatric Dentist in Kansas City

Choosing the best pediatric dentist for your child may seem intimidating, but there are several tips you can use to find the right one for your child. 

• Ask friends and family
• Read online reviews
• Call the office and ask questions – see how you feel about the conversation
• Observe an appointment 

When it comes to the oral health of your child, you obviously want to choose the best care possible. We want that too. So we encourage you to take your time and dig into each choice. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or even schedule consultations with your top choices. 

Are Baby Teeth Important Enough to See a Pediatric Dentist? 

Despite the fact that baby teeth aren’t permanent and will fall out, it’s still important to monitor their overall health and the development of adult teeth. Baby teeth are important for many reasons, from speech development to chewing solid foods. But that’s not all, baby teeth are basically placeholders for adult teeth and need to be cared for until they’re ready to fall out naturally. Your pediatric dentist is skilled in monitoring the development of adult teeth and can help intervene with proactive solutions before any potential problems occur. 

As a parent, we know you always want the best for your child. Considering a pediatric dentist as the best choice for your child is a wise decision, and we’re here to help. Call us with any questions you may have about which type of dentist you should see or with any concerns you have. 

We have pediatric dentists throughout Johnson County and the Kansas City area including in Overland Park, Prairie Village, Olathe, and Kansas City.