There are two dentists at the pediatric dental clinic we go to. My son likes one of them but not the other. I kind of feel the same way. He is just not as patient as the other dentist. The good dentist is leaving. If my son is about to turn 11, is it okay to go to a general dentist or does he need to stick with the pediatric dentist?
Pamela
Dear Pamela,
There is no requirement that a child has to be treated by a pediatric dentist. In fact, there are plenty of general dentists who enjoy treating children. Though a general dentist isn’t a pediatric specialist, they did do a pediatric rotation and are very qualified to treat children.
If you and your son are not too keen on the dentist who will remain, this would be a fantastic time to transition him. I would consider looking into a family dentist. It is very helpful to have the entire family go to the same clinic.
Often the dentist will see patterns in the family genetics and be able to take better preventative care of your child.
It will be important you make the transition sooner, rather than later. This way your son will meet the new dentist when all his teeth are healthy and the appointment will be a simple checkup. What you don’t want to do is wait until there is a dental emergency and then rush to find a new dentist. If that happens, his first experience with the new dentist will be a frightening one.
I’d also look ahead to whether or not you want your son to go to a dentist who offers dental sedation options. You don’t want to get him settled on a new dentist only to find out he doesn’t offer sedation if that is something your son is used to. I know many parents prefer to have at least nitrous oxide on hand when their child needs a filling.
This blog is brought to you by Hoffman Estates Dentist Dr. William Becker.