FAQ - Dentistry for Kids – The Center for Dental Education

Do I need a pediatric dental specialist for my kid? Maybe. If your child is younger than 5 years old and needs a significant amount of treatment, it may be best to get someone who likes working on children. Most dentists don’t do very well with children under 5 – and I am no exception to that. I would always refer younger children to my favorite pediatric dentist. Now, some younger children may be quite manageable, but most are scared and not very cooperative. The specialist has an office dedicated to children, making them more comfortable, and has specialized techniques that make it easier on the kids. Also, pediatric specialists have hospital privileges, so they can treat the really young children in a setting where anesthesia can be more complete.
What kind of dentists specialize in pediatric dentistry? All of the pediatric dentists I have known are of the nature that they simply LOVE working with kids. They are very strongly empathetic with the children and put them immediately at ease. It is a natural gift that I have always admired and respected – not a gift I possess. We are lucky that those that have that gift often find their way to pediatric dentistry.