What Are the Differences between General and Pediatric Dentists?

Some people mistakenly believe there is no real difference between a general dentist and a pediatric dentist. In fact, choosing a good pediatric dentist who has been specifically trained to treat children’s teeth can be very beneficial. A pediatric dentist will know how to put anxious or nervous children at ease. This can help ensure they have a positive experience which can shape their attitude towards lifelong dental care.

Education

Pediatric dentists have first qualified as general dentists but have been chosen to undergo an additional two or three years training in treating infants, children, teenagers and children with special needs. This specialized training will have included a residency program. During this time a pediatric dentist in Fresno will have learned how to correctly diagnose issues and provide preventative dental care, how to teach oral hygiene to young children, and how to manage children’s behavior during their dental visits. In addition they will have been taught about the growth and development of children’s teeth, jaws and facial structures, and will have studied sedation techniques.

Treatments

Children have unique oral health issues, and pediatric dentists have been trained to identify any possible risks. Some of these can be due to oral habits such as thumbsucking or pacifier use, while others can be down to parental influence, particularly diet. A typical visit to a pediatric dentist in Fresno is likely to include an examination and teeth cleaning, as well as fluoride treatments if required. Your dentist can diagnose any problems such as cavities or broken teeth. They are also trained to help identify issues with tooth alignment and bite problems and can monitor and treat dental health issues due to gum disease, or to other general health problems such as diabetes.

Special Needs

Most general dentists are not trained to provide the level of care required by children with special needs. These children may have mental or physical challenges. A pediatric dentist can ensure they receive the best level of oral health care, as their issues often require a dentist with specialized knowledge.

We look forward to seeing you in our Fresno dental office