How To Choose A Pediatric Dentist

byAlma Abell

If you are a child, you know the importance of taking care of his or her teeth. It is also essential that you take them to visit a dentist. If you want them to have a positive experience in New York State, locating the right pediatric dentist in Massapequa becomes vital.

You do not want them to have a negative experience the first time around. This means, you need to carefully research the dentists in your area. You need to compile a list, check it twice and make sure the dentist qualifies before you make the visit a reality.

The Dentist

When you start looking at dentists, find the answers to these basic questions:

• Is the dentist a pediatric dentist?

• What are his or her qualifications?

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• Where did he or she obtain their degree?

• Is he a specialist? If so, in what?

• Does he have the support of local associations as well as national dental associations?

• How involved is he or she in the community? This will indicate a sense of belonging and concern for where he lives that extends outside of the office

• How long has the pediatric dentist been in practice?

Once you know this information, it is time to make a personal visit to the office. While there you can find the answers to the next set of questions.

The Office

Take the time to visit the offices of the pediatric dentists you are considering. This will give you an idea of how the office staff operates as well as the general atmosphere of the working environment. Consider the following:

• What is the general appearance of the office? Is it comfortable, clean and child friendly? Are there toys, games and other items to occupy waiting children?

• Does the staff take the time to talk to you and answer your questions or are they “too busy” to bother?

• Are they willing to provide you with information on the office as well as educational material on preventing dentist visits? Instead, do they seem focused on getting children in and out?

• Do they appear interested in the overall health of your child?

• Does the staff seem approachable? Do they mind you asking about fees, and availability after hours and during emergencies?

• How do they seem to be with children? How does the pediatric dentist appear to react to and interact with his patients?

• Do you think you can trust the staff and the pediatric dentist with your child?

It is important to know the answers to all these questions before you make an appointment. It is also beneficial to your child if you can bring him or her in for a sort of “meet-and-greet” prior to the appointment. This will remove some of the fear and anxiety from the impending visit.

How important is the first visit of any child to a pediatric dentist? In Massapequa, professional dentists agree you need to do your research before you make an appointment. While this may involves some legwork, it will be beneficial for you and your child in the long run.