What Is A Pediatric Dentist?
All dentists are licensed to practice dentistry on both children and adults – but pediatric dentistry is a specialized field that requires up to three additional years of schooling. Obtaining a certificate in Pediatric Dentistry displays a commitment to understanding and mastering the needs of our most precious patients; your children. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Pediatric Dentists comprise only 5% of all dentists in the United States, making this a highly specialized field. Pediatric Dentists focus on instilling oral hygiene habits, educating young patients about the importance of dental care, and maintaining healthy, happy smiles.
The pediatric dentists on our staff are teachers as well as healers. We present facts and information to your children in a way that is easy for them to comprehend. By speaking with your children about their dental health using language that they can understand, we’re reinforcing healthy habits and influencing the next generation of smiles to make smart decisions. Many children learn their best oral hygiene habits from our pediatric dentists, including:
- Brushing
- Flossing
- Feeling comfortable in a dentist's office
- How to avoid tooth decay
When is it time to bring my child to see you?
Setting your child up for dental hygiene success starts at a young age. Around the time of your child’s first birthday, they will start to experience tooth eruption, teething issues and sensitivity. This is the perfect time to schedule your first appointment! Our infant dentistry services are particularly helpful to first time parents, as we help you navigate the best course for your child’s long term dental health.
You can play a large part in preparing your child for their first visit to the dentist. Try to act relaxed and at ease. Any anxiety on your part will be sensed by your child. Tell your child that we will “count” and “take pictures” of their teeth. Do not use fear provoking words such as “hurt, drill, pull and needle.” We will thoroughly explain each of our procedures to your child in terms that they can understand before we do it. Be assured that we will treat your child as gingerly as we treat our own. Some children may cry during their visit. If this is the case, we may decide to do less a their visit in order to gain your child’s trust.
At the cleaning visit, we will emphasize oral hygiene techniques to be practiced by both you and your child. We will answer any questions that you may have. A full examination of the teeth and supporting structures will be done and your child’s occlusion, or alignment of their teeth, will be evaluated. Radiographs (x-rays) will be taken as necessary, not routinely, to assure a thorough and comprehensive examination. In addition, a fluoride treatment will be given. Subsequent visits for restorations will be scheduled if needed. When treatment has been completed, your child will be placed on a periodic exam schedule. You will receive a reminder call a few days before you visit is scheduled.
Our emphasis is on prevention in both the office and the home. We recommend regular exams and cleanings as well as positive and thorough home care. Home care includes limited sweets, brushing two times a day, and flossing at least once a day. The most important time to have thorough brushing is before bedtime. Because the primary teeth form the basis of the adult dentition, we will do everything possible to preserve the integrity of your child’s dentition while fostering a healthy and relaxed attitude toward dental care.
At conclusion of your child’s exam the doctor will meet with you to explain what has been found and the treatment recommendations. Before you leave the office, our financial secretary will discuss fees and options for payment.
You can reach the doctor on the office cell phone (215) 514-1348. If there is no answer, please leave a message and the doctor will return your call as soon as possible.