What Are the Differences Between a Children’s Dentist and a Family Dentist

When it comes to choosing a dentist, there are many things to consider. One of the most important decisions is whether you want to see a children’s dentist or a family dentist. So, what are the differences between these two types of dentists? What’s the difference between a family dentist and a children’s dentist? Are they the same thing? The answer is yes and no. Both have to do with keeping your teeth healthy, but we approach children’s dentistry and family dentistry differently.

What Are the Differences Between a Children’s Dentist and a Family Dentist?

What’s the difference between a family dentist and a children’s dentist? Are they the same thing? The answer is yes and no. Both have to do with keeping your teeth healthy, but we approach children’s dentistry and family dentistry differently. Because of this, we at Li’l Sunshine Smiles specialize in providing dental services for children to start life with healthy teeth.

A children’s dentist specializes in dentistry for kids and teens. They undergo special training to understand the unique oral health needs of children, and use approaches for younger patients. A family dentist, on the other hand, is a generalist who treats patients of all ages—from toddlers to senior citizens. Both types of dentists provide preventive care, such as cleanings and exams. But a children’s dentist can meet the unique needs of young patients, such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments. They also may recommend additional services for growing teeth, like interceptive orthodontics or space maintainers.

When deciding which type of dentist is right for your family, it’s important to consider your child’s individual needs. For instance, if your child has special circumstances like a cleft lip or palate, then they would benefit from seeing a children’s dentist who specializes in treating these conditions. Additionally, young children may be more comfortable with a doctor who has experience working with younger patients.

Infant and Child Exams

During an infant exam, we allow the infant to stay in the comfort of your arms or security of your lap. Because the child will be positioned facing their parent, with their legs wrapped around the parent’s waist, they will feel more secure during the exam.

Dr. Cat will sit knee-to-knee with the parent and the child will be lowered back onto the dentist’s lap. The parent keeps contact with their child the entire appointment. We have found that the best way to keep children calm is to have the parent with the child for each examination.

Dr. Cat will examine your child’s mouth using a mirror and soft toothbrush. The ADA recommends that infants and children receive a check-up every 6 months for their teeth. Because the jaw and mouth are still growing before the age of 10, we recommend orthodontic care early-on. And, if we find the presence of a bite problem (overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite) we can treat it before mouth structures become more fixed. 

When Should Your Child First See the Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child should see the dentist by their first birthday. Early visits to the dentist can help your child get comfortable with regular check-ups and also allow us to watch for any potential problems as they develop. We are dedicated to giving your child a positive dental experience, so they can grow up with healthy habits and a beautiful smile!

Caring for Your Child’s Smile

At Li’l Sunshine Smiles we understand the importance of caring for your child’s oral health and happiness. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to help children from infancy through adolescence have healthy teeth and gums. From preventive care like fluoride treatments, sealants, and bi-annual check-ups to interceptive orthodontics and space maintainers, we can help your child’s smile stay bright and healthy.

We also specialize in providing treatment for children with special needs or dental anxiety. Additionally, our staff is dedicated to helping kids develop positive oral health habits that they can keep with them into adulthood. So if you’re looking for a children’s dentist you can trust, look no further than Li’l Sunshine Smiles!

Make an Appointment with Li’l Sunshine Smiles

No matter which type of dentist you choose, it’s important to make sure they are qualified and experienced. At Li’l Sunshine Smiles, we specialize in providing dental services for children to start life with healthy teeth. Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment!