Why Choose a Dentist for Your Child’s Dental Care

At Great Smiles Family Dentistry, we value the importance of both pediatric dentistry and general dentistry in maintaining oral health and hygiene. Our team of experienced dentists is trained to cater to the unique dental needs of different age groups.

Pediatric dentists are specialists in providing dental care to children, from infancy through adolescence. With an additional two to three years of specialized training after their primary dental degree, they are well-equipped to handle dental growth developments, specific dental issues, and behavioral aspects of children. Our team strives to create a child-friendly environment that is less intimidating and more engaging for children, making their dental visits an enjoyable experience.

In addition to treating dental issues related to infants such as teething, pediatric dentists also monitor the development of adult teeth in older children. They work closely with parents to establish good oral habits early in their child’s life, offering age-specific treatments like space maintainers, sealants, and fluoride treatments to prevent or treat common dental issues.

On the other hand, general dentists provide oral care to people of all ages. Although they are capable of treating children, their primary focus lies on addressing a broad range of oral health concerns across all age groups, making them akin to primary care doctors in medicine.

While general dentists are competent in managing a child’s oral health, pediatric dentists are specifically trained to deal with the unique issues and challenges that children’s oral health may present.

Dental anxiety is a common issue among children. Our team of dedicated pediatric dentists is experienced in dealing with this issue, ensuring a positive and comfortable experience for your child during their visit.

The first step in our approach is to conduct a thorough assessment of your child’s anxiety level. From there, our pediatric dentists use child-friendly communication to explain to your child what is happening and why it’s important.

At Great Smiles Family Dentistry, we introduce dental procedures to children gradually. We use play therapy methods to help them understand what will happen during their visit.

During procedures, we employ various distraction techniques such as showing videos, playing music, or storytelling to divert the child’s attention from the dental treatment. We also provide positive reinforcement for brave behavior, such as verbal praise or small rewards.

In case of moderate anxiety, we can administer nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, which has a calming effect and reduces the sensation of pain and anxiety. For severe anxiety or extensive dental work, we may recommend sedation. This involves administering medication to induce a state of relaxation, while the child remains awake and able to cooperate with our dentist’s instructions. Our clinic is designed to create an environment that is inviting and comforting for children.

The first visit to a pediatric dentist plays a significant role in your child’s oral health and overall well-being. At our practice, we make this experience as comfortable and positive as possible. Here’s what you can expect during this crucial appointment:

Pre-Appointment Preparation:

• Confirm Appointment: Schedule an appointment that suits your convenience as well as your child’s comfort.

• Gather Information: Provide the dentist with your child’s medical history, any allergies, and any concerns you might have. This way, the dentist is better prepared to care for your child and alleviate any potential anxiety.

Arrival at The Clinic:

• Welcome: The staff and dentist welcome you and your child, creating a warm and comfortable environment.

• Registration: Complete the necessary paperwork and provide us with information about your child’s oral health.

Oral Examination:

• Inspection: The dentist will gently inspect your child’s teeth, gums, and oral tissues for signs of decay or other abnormalities.

• X-rays (optional): If required, the dentist may take X-rays to assess your child’s teeth and jawbone’s overall health.

• Cleaning and Fluoride Assessment: The dentist or hygienist will gently clean your child’s teeth and assess fluoride needs.

Dental Education:

• Dietary Guidance and Prevention of Oral Habits: The dentist will guide you on healthy eating habits and discuss preventing oral habits like thumb sucking.

• Brushing and Flossing Techniques: The dentist will educate both you and your child on effective brushing and flossing habits.

• Fluoride Treatment: If needed, the dentist may apply fluoride varnish or gel to strengthen your child’s teeth and prevent cavities.

Additional Services (if necessary):

• Fillings: If our dentist detects cavities or decay, they may recommend fillings to restore your child’s oral health.

• Sealants: The dentist may apply sealants to protect your child’s teeth from decay.

Follow-up Care:

• Scheduling: Based on your child’s individual needs and oral health, the dentist will suggest the frequency of follow-up visits.

• Home Care Instructions: You will receive specific guidelines on maintaining your child’s oral health at home.

Choosing the right pediatric dentist for your child is crucial for their oral health and overall well-being. This may seem like an overwhelming task, but with the right approach, it becomes quite straightforward. Here are some strategies to help you choose the pediatric dentist:

Referrals and Recommendations:

Start by asking your pediatrician, family, friends, or neighbors about their experiences. You can also inquire at local dental societies or community clinics about our reputation.

Online Reviews:

Check out for online reviews and ratings. These will give you a general idea of their reputation within the community.

Office Environment and Staff:

Find a dentist that boasts a child-friendly atmosphere with colorful decor and age-appropriate toys. It is important to have staff who are experienced in making children feel at ease and ensuring their comfort and safety.

Consultation:

Schedule a consultation with the dentists and assess their compatibility with your child. This will also give you a chance to ask any questions about our policies and procedures.

By following these steps, you can secure the best pediatric dental care for your child. Our pediatric dentists are accepting new patients. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4646 Nantucket Dr Suite D, Toledo, OH 43623. We serve patients from Toledo OH, Oregon OH, Ottawa Hills OH, Perrysburg OH, Woodhurst OH, Sylvania OH, Shoreland OH and BEYOND.