WHY CHOOSE A PEDIATRIC DENTIST? LAKE ST. LOUIS
Taking Care of Growing Smiles Is Our Specialty
Pediatric dentists are different from general dentists, but many parents aren’t sure exactly how. If you’re on the fence about bringing your child to a pediatric dentist in Lake St. Louis, we encourage you to reach out to our friendly staff at Sunny Shore Pediatric Dentistry of Lake Saint Louis so we can help outline the benefits of seeing a specialist who solely treats infants, children, and teens. You can also learn more about the differences between bringing your child to see a general dentist versus a pediatric dentist below.
How Is a Pediatric Dentist Different from a General Dentist?
As opposed to general dentists, pediatric dentists are experts at caring specifically for smiles that are still developing, helping infants, children, and teens maintain good dental health during these transitional life stages. This expertise comes from two years of additional training following dental school in a pediatric residency. These residency programs are focused solely on infant, child, and teen oral development, treating children with special needs, and children’s dental sedation.
What Are the Benefits of Taking My Child to a Pediatric Dentist?
Visiting the dentist at a young age can be daunting and scary, not only because it’s a new environment and experience for children, but it can also set the stage for parents on what to expect during future dental visits. One of the biggest benefits of seeing a pediatric dentist in St. Louis is the fact that they are especially trained to offer kid-friendly, educational, and comfortable dental care, increasing the chances of your child having positive first dental experiences. This can set the stage for a good relationship with the dentist’s office for not only you as a parent, but also for your child down the road.
What Ages Do Pediatric Dentists Treat?
Pediatric dentists are trained to treat children up to 18 years old. This is because the jawbone and oral anatomy stops developing around this age, which makes it the perfect time for teens to transition to seeing a general dentist. However, until that time comes, pediatric dentists are able to take care of all of your child’s dental needs throughout every stage of their development.
Dentistry for Infants
Although your baby may not have any teeth yet, maintaining their gum health is an important building block for healthy tooth eruption. A pediatric dentist can help make that happen with insightful tips and parent education. These early visits are also a great way for your baby to get familiar with the dentist’s office!
Learn More About Dentistry for Infants
Dentistry for Toddlers
Once your child hits toddlerhood, it’s likely that they’ll have quite a few primary teeth. By this point, regular brushing and flossing should be happening, as well as routine checkups and cleanings with their pediatric dentist in Lake St. Louis. This will ensure healthy oral development and create good dental hygiene habits.
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Dentistry for Children
As soon as your child hits school-age, they’ll be in a transition period where their baby teeth will begin falling out to make room for their permanent adult teeth to grow in. Routine dental checkups and teeth cleanings, as well as preventive care, like dental sealants, are crucial during this time to help them avoid common oral health concerns like cavities.
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Dentistry for Teens
As your child begins growing into a young adult, their dental needs will change. In order for them to maintain healthy and happy smiles into adulthood, regular preventive care and evaluation of jaw growth is important. Dr. Ivan will be able to refer them for an orthodontic evaluation if needed, as well as help them transition into adulthood with a sunny smile they are proud of!
Learn More About Dentistry for Teens
Dentistry for Children with Special Healthcare Needs
Our office is able to accommodate children of all needs and abilities. With ample experience in providing young patients of all abilities with high-quality, attentive, and effective oral healthcare, pediatric dentists are the best choice for parents who have children with special needs. Dr. Ivan also offers sedation dentistry options so that all kids receive the care that they deserve!