A visit to a pediatric dentist will be a little different than a trip to your regular dentist. Pediatric dental offices are often designed and decorated specifically with children in mind. Smaller seating and fun waiting rooms filled with music, toys, or movies are common, so you can expect a little more noise and a little less stress for your child. Treatment areas will have smaller equipment and chairs, and there may be movies or other distractions here as well to keep your child occupied. Your child may also receive a small toy or reward at the end of the appointment to encourage positive behavior and a return for future care. All of this is to create an inviting, enjoyable environment children want to come to and that reduces stress and anxiety about treatment or procedures.
In addition to their kid-friendly approach, pediatric dentists also have special training in area specific to childhood dental development, such as:
Teeth that are shifting as a result of thumb sucking or bottle or pacifier dependency
Decay that can result from “baby bottle mouth”
The development and eruption schedules of both baby and adult teeth
Resources and guidance for developing good oral hygiene habits
Referrals to trusted orthodontists
Pediatric sedation dentistry for important procedures like fillings, sealants, or crowns