The medical field is as broad as it is complicated, and navigating your dental choices can feel difficult come time to find the right physician for your family — especially when your children are very young.
After all, we have little doubt that you’ll have a variety of questions to ask before you commit to any one dental practice. And one common question potential patients have is a simple one:
“What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?”
What Is A Pediatric Dentist?
“A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only,” according to the American Dental Association (ADA).
In other words, a pediatric dentist specializes in providing oral and dental care to children from infancy through their adolescence. Thus, they only see children and do not provide dental care to adult patients.
Pediatric dentists are also trained to provide dental care to children with disabilities and/or other special needs.
What Is A Family Dentist?
“Family dental groups or practices typically offer specialties or services for the whole family at the same location,” as explained by Colgate. “With family dentists, you can schedule appointments for multiple family members at the same time.”
In general, the primary difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist is that a family dentist will see children and adults. Otherwise, a family dental practice may have a pediatric dentist as a member of their larger team.
Overall, where some need the specialized touch of a pediatric dentist, others find they prefer the efficiency of a family dentist.
A Dentist You Can Trust
At the end of the day, the best dentist for your child is one you can trust. While some choices may feel overwhelming, ensuring you can find a board-certified dentist who is passionate about making your child as comfortable as possible is a priority!
That’s why, here at the office of Setzer, Cochran, Soares, and Hubbard, you can trust that we have the experience, the knowledge, and the care your child needs for a successful dental experience.
To learn more about how we can keep your child’s smile both happy and healthy, contact us today and schedule an appointment!