Posted on March 29, 2023
Also known as pedodontists, pediatric dentists are specialized in the needs of children from birth to adolescence which includes the treatment of children with special needs. Pediatric dentists undergo several more years of training after completing their dental school requirements in order to ensure their young patients are welcomed into a friendly, positive, and inviting environment during their visits.
A pediatric dentist will provide you with the best hygiene techniques for your child and your little one will be better motivated to take great care of their teeth. Not all dentists are created equal and while your general dentist may provide adequate treatment for you as an adult, your child requires more specialized care and treatments. A pediatric dentist can provide treatment that’s both approachable and comprehensive.
Pediatric dentists receive additional education and training beyond what a general dental practitioner education requires.
In order to become a pediatric dentist specialist, a candidate must first earn a bachelor’s degree, pass their Dental Admission Test (DAT), and attend dental school to be awarded a Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DDM), and finally, earn a license to practice in their state.
In addition to dental school, and in order to specialize in pediatric dentistry, a two-year residency program is required. Once the residency is complete, the dentist will receive a board certification and become a Diplomate of Pediatric Dentistry. This certification is overseen by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and is recognized as the accrediting agency for dental and dental-related education programs.
Beyond learning about pediatric dental treatments, pediatric dentists may also receive training on other medical treatments including:
Jacaranda Smiles offers a variety of treatments to help keep your child’s teeth looking great. The most common pediatric dental services include preventative care, sealants, and fluoride treatment.
Routine dental examinations are important for monitoring your child’s smile and overall oral health. At Jacaranda Smiles, we thoroughly examine your child’s teeth, gums, tongue and even lips to look for signs of complications. In the event issues are noticed, a treatment plan can be quickly created to restore your child’s oral health.
Sealants are a plastic material that is applied on your child’s teeth such as molars and premolars with a rough surface which makes them prone to cavities. Since they are located at the back, it is also difficult to clean them properly and food particles remain stuck there which attracts bacteria. The sealant creates a protective barrier between the bacteria and teeth.
When a baby tooth is injured or decayed, it is important to act fast and seek treatment. Untreated dental cavities can cause pain and tooth sensitivity. Over time, this condition can lead to more serious health problems. Once your dentist has diagnosed a cavity, your child will likely need a dental filling. The two most commonly used fillings in children are:
Your dentist can help you decide which filling material is best for your child. However, if the affected tooth has a large cavity, Dr. Landa may suggest a porcelain crown or a root canal.
The first visit to the pediatric dentist should be at or around 12 months or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. This is an opportunity for your child to get familiar with the friendly and new environment of the dental office. Jacaranda Smiles will greet your child and make them feel comfortable as soon as they walk in.
A dental hygienist will take you and your child back to our colorful treatment area and your child may sit on your lap during the exam.
Our doctor will introduce themself and do a quick examination of your child’s gums and each tooth for signs of decay, gum disease, evaluate their growth and development and review any other concerns you may have.
Some additional topics that may be addressed during your first dental visit include:
Our pediatric dentist will then recommend and schedule a follow-up. These routine visits allow us to monitor your child’s healthy growth and development, provide preventative dental care, and treat budding problems.
To find a certified local pediatric dentist in your area, first, start your search with your insurance company. Starting your search there and finding a pediatric dentist that is within network will ensure that you receive the highest benefit level and cost savings available with your plan. Using an out-of-network provider will result in little to no cost savings and you may be responsible for the services provided out of pocket.
The ADA recommends bringing your child to the dentist once their first tooth comes in. Pediatric dentists understand the importance of care for young patients. To ensure your child enjoys the dentist, choose the best option for pediatric dentistry in Plantation.
Contact Jacaranda Smiles for a pediatric dentist to make your child feel comfortable. We offer pediatric dental and orthodontic care for kids as young as 2 in a caring, clean, and safe environment. By creating a positive relationship with a dentist early on, your child is sure to be excited about regular dentist visits well into adulthood.
Monday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday By Appointment Only
