3 Tips for Selecting Your Child's Dentist

Those who fear dentists often cite traumatic childhood experiences as the reason why they're frightened. As a parent, you know that your child's dental health plays a large role in his or her overall health, so you want your son or daughter to have positive dental experiences. Here are three tips you can follow to make sure that a dentist will treat your child with care and sensitivity.

Find Out If They Allow Parents in the Room

It's long been a common practice that a parent is present during a child's initial dental exam. However, the debate continues as to whether or not a parent's presence or lack thereof during dental treatment makes a difference in a child's anxiety levels. In recent years, more pediatric dental practices are allowing it, even having parents hold smaller children instead of having them sit in a chair. Not all practices permit this, so if this is important to you, then make sure you ask about parental presence policies when reviewing potential dentists.

Find Out How They Combat Fear of Dentists

Utilizing relaxation techniques during a dentist appointment can create a calmer, more enjoyable experience for clients. For children, these techniques are even more important to ensure good comfort levels. Listening to music or playing a game on a tablet during treatment might be enough to relax some kids, but if necessary, some type of sedation method should be available. In your initial consultation, ask the dentist to explain the methods the practice uses to put their patients at ease.  Many pediatric dentists have had special instruction on how to relax and comfort youngsters and will often advertise this, so bear that in mind.

Find Out If They Have Good Reviews

Many parents find that the best way to locate a good pediatric dentist is to ask friends, relatives, and neighbors who they use.  Chances are excellent that you'll hear the same names coming up repeatedly. You'll also want to check review sites such as Yelp and Healthgrades to read about others' experiences. If your prospective practice has a complaint, see if it relates to the actual service received and not something minor such as the reception desk not having your child's favorite sugar-free lollipop flavor.

Finding a good pediatric dental practice is an essential part of ensuring your child's future health and good oral care techniques. Don't be afraid to be picky!

When you’re planning a party, keep TLC Bounce in mind! Get in contact with us today!