Many parents ask if their family dentist can take care of their kids or if they need to find a pediatric specialist. At Dentistry on the Pines we see kids with their parents and siblings. We’d like to answer this popular question to help you choose the best dental care for your family in Vaughan.
The short answer is yes, family dentists can treat kids. All dentists learn how to care for patients of all ages, from babies to teens, in dental school. This includes pediatric dentistry. Family dentists know how kids grow and how to treat their teeth in a way that’s right for them. We know how to watch how teeth are coming in, spot potential orthodontic problems and give preventive care to keep developing teeth safe. Cosmetic Dentistry enhances the appearance of the smile through treatments that improve tooth shape, color, and alignment. It helps individuals achieve a brighter, more confident look.
Family dentists and pediatric specialists are different because they have different areas of expertise and have had extra training in those areas. Pediatric dentists have 2-3 more years of residency training that focuses only on treating children, especially those with special health needs or difficult behaviour issues. Many times they see very young babies and kids who are terrified of the dentist or have medical problems that require special care. A family dentist on the other hand gives great all around care for most kids with normal dental needs.
One big advantage of taking your kids to the same family dentist is that they will get the same care every time. When the same dental office takes care of everyone in your family, all of their dental records are in one place. This helps the dentist get a complete picture of your family’s dental history and any genetic factors that may affect it. Your kids see you getting dental care in the same place, which makes it seem more normal and less stressful. Siblings can help each other out during appointments and parents can get their own dental care at the same time which makes the sessions more efficient.
Dentistry on the Pines is a place where kids feel welcome and at ease. We are soft, patient and appropriate for our young patients. We use simple words to explain what we’re going to do and show them our tools before we use them. We praise them for cooperating and being brave which makes them feel good about taking care of their teeth. These early experiences set the stage for a lifetime of healthy dental habits and regular visits to the dentist. Dental Fillings are used to restore teeth affected by decay, returning strength and function while preventing further damage. Modern materials allow Dental Fillings to blend naturally with surrounding tooth structure.
We recommend kids go to the dentist for the first time before their first birthday or when their first tooth comes in. These first visits allow us to check on how the child’s teeth are growing, talk to parents about how to keep their child’s mouth clean and help the child get used to the dentist office. Going to the dentist early, even before any problems arise, helps kids perceive the dentist as a normal, safe thing to do instead of something to be afraid of.
A big part of what we do is preventive care for kids. We can find cavities early on and treat them more easily with regular cleanings and exams. We give fluoride treatments that make teeth stronger and less likely to decay. We put dental sealants on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to give them an extra layer of protection in the areas where kids get cavities. We also teach kids and their parents how to clean and floss their teeth, make healthy food choices and take care of their teeth.
In some cases we may recommend you see a pediatric specialist. If a child has severe dental anxiety that makes treatment difficult, a pediatric dentist who specializes in behaviour management would be better able to help. A pediatric specialist may be able to help kids with complex medical conditions, major special needs, or serious dental problems that require anesthesia or treatment in a hospital. We always put each child’s needs first and will send them to an expert when necessary.
But most kids do well when they see a family dentist in Vaughan. They get good dental care in a relaxed environment, often with family members which makes the experience more helpful. They can keep seeing the same dental team that has taken care of them since their first tooth came in as they grow from kids to teens and then adults.
If you’re not sure if our family dental office is right for your kids, we suggest you come in for a visit. You can meet our team, see our office and talk about what your kids need. We promise to provide friendly and effective dental care for everyone and would love to be a part of your family’s journey to better dental health.