Subspecialties Of Dentistry

Dentist Blog

There are subspecialties within the field of dentistry. Knowing what these subspecialties are can help you to find a dentist who can best help serve your needs. Whether you have small children or you have a fear of going to the dentist, there are ways to get the help you need:

Services Provided by a Pediatric Dentist

Helping small children develop a positive and lasting relationship with the dentist is a critical component of promoting good dental hygiene for years to come. However, not all dentists train specifically for how to work with children. Children have peculiar needs as compared with adults, which is why it is important for dentists who work with children to understand children's needs and what they can do to help children to feel safe in their practice. When you go to a pediatric dentist, you will find staff who are specifically chosen to work with children, a play area in the waiting area to keep children occupied while they work, and technology in place to help children feel comfortable during their visit. For example, you could find a television screen in the ceiling above the exam chair that children can control to choose a show to watch while the hygienist and/or dentist is working on their teeth. 

Sedation Dentistry

People develop a fear of going to the dentist for many reasons, but a fear of the dentist does not preclude the need to have your teeth cleaned or cavities properly taken care of. If you know you need dental help, but you don't feel comfortable going to the dentist, then you should look into sedation dentistry. A dentist who uses sedation dentistry will be trained in how to use laughing gas to put you under for any parts of the exam or procedure that you would rather not be awake for. Thus, if you want to be put under for your full visit, that is an option. 

Whatever your needs are when you go to the dentist, you should be able to find a dentist who is prepared and ready to address those needs. Thus, when you look for a dentist, your criteria for making your choice should include more than the proximity of the dentist's office to your home, your children's school, or your place of work. Taking the time to research the different dentists in your area and what if any specialties they have is the best foundation for a lasting and positive relationship with your dentist. 

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9 July 2017

Getting Your Toddler to the Dentist Once and For All

Toddlers should see a dentist for the first time by the age of twelve months or by the time their first tooth comes in. But if you are a parent with toddlers anything like mine, the prospect of going to the dentist (let alone anywhere!) can be pretty intimidating. My kids were a handful growing up. They had tantrums any time we would have to sit in a waiting room, and they refused to get in the dentist's chair during their first few visits. So, I had to employ a professional to help me make the transition to finally getting them in that dental chair without all the screaming and crying. I know I'm not the only parent in this situation, so I decided to share the information I've learned with others who can use a little help. You can find all my advice right here on these pages!