What is a pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists after completing a bachelor’s degree earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery or Degree of Dental Medicine, then go to complete two to three years of specialized training. This training creates a unique child focused experience to put the patient and parent at ease for all appointments. Their offices are typically more geared towards children with games, toys, TVs and kid friendly tools. Pediatric dentists evaluate overall oral health, preventative education, cleanings, restorations, and oral health concerns. Pediatric dentists see children as soon as they get their first teeth to the age of 18 years old.

What is a general dentist?

General dentists, like pediatric dentists, earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery or Degree of Dental Medicine after completing a bachelor’s degree. Rather than specializing in one area they provide a range of services for the patients they treat. They manage your overall oral health needs, gum health, preventative education, cleanings, restorations, whitening, and overall oral health concerns. General dentists are able to treat patients of all ages.

When deciding which office would be the best fit it is important to keep in mind pediatric dentists are kid experts. They are better prepared to focus on the specific issues related to children’s oral health, such as handling the emotional and developmental stages that can have an impact on a child’s dental
appointments. If you are in the Kansas City area, then LeBlanc and Associates would love to see you for a visit to put your mind at ease. Please feel free to contact any of our four offices to schedule an appointment.

Written by Olivia, RDH

Olivia grew up in southeast Kansas. After graduating high school, Olivia went on to continue her education at Missouri Southern State University. She graduated in May 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in health science and an associate’s in dental hygiene. Following graduation, Olivia began working at LeBlanc & Associates where she immediately felt at home! Olivia loves the environment of the office, the encouragement of the doctors, relationships with her peers and interactions with patients. In her free time, Olivia enjoys spending time with her family and exploring all Kansas City has to offer.