To establish a healthy dental routine for your child, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you bring your child to their first dental appointment when their first tooth grows in or around their first birthday - whichever comes first. Making sure you establish a routine with your child and a good relationship with their dentist from an early age is crucial in their oral health.
It can be overwhelming when you're searching for the “best pediatric dentist near me” and hundreds of results pop up on Google. You’ll want to start narrowing down your selection by seeing which dentists are not only close enough for your child’s regular dental exams and any preventative cleanings, but also in case of any dental emergencies! Accidents do happen, and you’ll want to be close to your child’s dentist when they do.
But choosing the right dentist for your child aside from location can be made easier by asking the following questions during your search.
For regular check-ups, you visit a pediatric doctor because they specialize in children’s bodies, so you’ll want to find a pediatric dentist that specializes in growing mouths, too! In addition to their regular dental school training, pediatric dentists will need to complete an additional 2-3 years of training to teach them how to work in little mouths, while also keeping their pint-sized patients calm and comfortable during their procedures. Pediatric dentists have been trained in recognizing dental anxiety, special needs, and general children’s behavior.
When you think about your dental office, it can be bland, sterile, and boring. But a pediatric dentist should have an office that’s not only clean, but inviting and colorful, too. You’ll want to make sure they have activities for your child to participate in while they’re waiting for their appoint to help ease any pre-appointment anxieties.
Children are more prone to cavities and tooth decay, so you’ll want a pediatric dentist to take additional measures to help prevent unhealthy mouth conditions from developing into something much worse. Having a pediatric dentist that provides regular dental cleanings and exams is important for your child’s oral health and dental routine.
If your pediatric dentist hasn’t come directly recommended by a friend or family member, turning to Google reviews can be your best friend. Reading reviews will give you a good idea of what to expect when you bring your little one to their appointment.
Finally, if you’re searching “best pediatric dentist near me” and they show up, chances are, they’re relatively close. As we’ve said earlier, you’ll want a dentist that is not only close enough for regular visits, but emergencies, too.
Dr. Julie Liberman, DDS of Great Neck Dental Care NY, proudly serves patients of all ages in the Great Neck area, spanning New Hyde Park, Floral Park, Douglaston, Jericho, Roslyn, etc. Contact our office today if you find yourself searching “best pediatric dentist near me” - look no further than Dr. Julie Liberman!
Never been happier with a dentist before! The professionalism, individual care, sparkling clean office, and the range of services are amazing. Highly recommended!