Are you searching for a new family dentist? If so, you may be wondering what the differences are between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist. Obviously, a pediatric dentist is one who focuses on providing dental care for children, but is there more to it than that? Knowing what sets them apart can help you decide which type of dental care provider would be best for your family.
The first major difference between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist is that a family dentist will be able to see your entire family, including children. Pediatric dentists focus solely on providing quality dental care to children below the age of 18, thus, they have received special dental training in regard to children. However, it’s very common for family dentists to also have undergone this training, making them just as qualified to provide dental care to your children.
For many families, the cost is also a big factor when choosing a dentist. While many family dental plans cover the cost of seeing a pediatric dentist, some do not. That alone can sometimes be enough to stop parents from exploring the option of a pediatric dentist, and you should definitely find out if the service is covered to help make a decision.
However, there are some benefits to choosing a pediatric dentist that make it an option worth considering. Pediatric dentists often have affiliations with pediatricians, children’s hospitals and other medical professionals in your area. This is often great for your child and gives you the peace of mind that you have a network of health experts who are committed to your child’s well-being and dental care needs. In addition, many pediatric dentists have plenty of amenities to help keep your child comfortable during the visit. These might include televisions with cartoons, toys, video games or even ways for kids to earn prizes for having a good visit.
As you can see, a family dentist offers many of the same benefits as a pediatric dentist. If you’re looking for a family dentistry in the Bellevue, Washington area, look no further than Smiles of Bellevue and Eastside Smiles. We’re committed to providing high-quality dental care to you and your family. Make an appointment today.