Pediatric Dentist Age Limit – When Is My Child Too Old?
Pediatric dentists are specialized dentists. Essentially, they are the pediatricians of dentistry. Pediatric dentists are considered primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special needs. Following four years of dental school, a pediatric dentist continues his or her education for two to three more years of specialty training, in which they learn how to solely treat children.
What kind of treatment do pediatric dentists provide?
Pediatric dentists provide an array of treatments that can differ from general dentists in regards to age-specific treatment. Typically, a pediatric dentist can perform the following:
- Infant oral health exams, which include risk assessment for dental caries
- Preventive dental care including cleanings and fluoride treatments, as well as nutrition and diet recommendations
- Habit counseling—pacifier use and thumb sucking
- Early assessment and treatment for straightening teeth and correcting an improper bite—orthodontic consultations
- Repair of tooth cavities or defects
- Management of gum diseases and conditions
- Care for dental injuries– fractured, displaced, or knocked-out teeth
Additionally, pediatric dentists use specifically designed equipment in offices that are arranged for children. They typically include more bright colors and “kid-friendly” decoration to help make children feel more relaxed and at ease.
What about teenagers?
While your child seems to be growing into a teenager and become less of a “child,” it may seem questionable to continue to take them to a pediatric dentist. However, it is great if you wish to continue to take your teen to the pediatric dentist. The pediatric dentist will already know your child and their dental history in order to ensure personalized treatment for your teen.
More importantly, there is not a strict age limit on when to switch your dental health provider. However, some patients may decide that they want to see a regular dentist once they reach the age of 18 and that is completely fine as well. Generally, it really depends on your child’s specific needs, behavior and oral health.
Contact Us
No matter the age, your child’s comfort level with the dentist is what is the most important to us! Our Raleigh pediatric dentists at Wells Family Dental Group have the specific training and education on how to treat your child in order to ensure that they are at ease and comfortable at the dentist. If you have yet to find the right dentist for your children, the staff at Well’s Family Dental Group encourages you to make an appointment today.