I’m going to have a baby soon and I’ve been researching everything possible including dental care. Some people insist on taking children to a pediatric dentist. Others say a family dentist is a better idea. Is there a better option or does it really not matter and it’s just about preference?

Karyn

Dear Karyn,

You’re at such an exciting stage in life—the beginning of an adventure more rewarding than anything you could imagine. It’s also stressful. As a new mom, you want to do everything right. Perfect. First, I don’t want you to stress. Both options have their advantages.

Advantages of a Family Dentist

• Genetic Predispositions: When a dentist works with an entire family, he gets a picture of the children’s genetic makeup because he works with their parents. This lets he or she know whether your cavities tend to move fast and whether or not you have good enamel, plus myriad other things. This helps them to be proactive when it comes to your children, resulting in a reduced risk of decay.
• Convenience: When you all go to the same practice, you can all be seen the same day, eliminating the need for multiple appointments at two different locations.
• Easy Transitions: At some point, a child has to transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist. For some children, this is difficult. They grow comfortable and familiar with their dental caregivers and don’t want to switch. While change is part of growing up, this also helps them have a clinic they can feel comfortable in from childhood through adulthood. Some family dentists are caring for three generations of the same family simultaneously.

Some parents worry that a family dentist isn’t qualified to treat children. While they haven’t done the extra time necessary for a Pediatric Specialty, their dental education more than qualifies them to care for children. If an issue were to come up which required a specialist, they would give a referral. This is similar to when a child sees their pediatrician, but then needs a referral to a specialist, such as an orthopedist or allergist.

Either choice is fine. Just be certain you check the dentist’s reviews to be sure people and children enjoy visiting them.

This blog is brought to you by Hoffman Estates Dentist Dr. Wiliam Becker.