Looking for a new dentist for your child in Athens, Watkinsville, or the surrounding Oconee area? You may be wondering what family dentists do, and if they’re the same as pediatric dentists.
In this blog from Greenpoint Pediatric Dentistry, we’ll discuss the basics about family dentists, and explain why pediatric dentists are different. Read on to get all the details.
Family Dentists Provide Care For Patients Of All Ages
The term “family” dentist does not actually mean that a dentist has a particular specialization. Primarily, this is a marketing term. Any dentist who goes to dental school and graduates with a dental degree (DMD or DDS) can call themselves a “family” dentist. These dentists are also often called “general” dentists.
As the name suggests, family dentists treat patients of all ages, from infants to seniors and everyone in-between. This means they are generalists who are familiar with most aspects of dental care for patients of all ages. They typically provide preventive care, as well as restorative services like dental crowns, cosmetic treatment like veneers, and a variety of other basic dental services.
Lots of people choose to see family dentists because they are convenient. You, your children, and your other family members can all see the same dentist to get the treatment you need. That’s the primary appeal of seeing a family dentist.
Pediatric Dentists Exclusively Treat Kids And Teens
Pediatric dentists are very different from general dentists. They are specialists who exclusively treat kids of all ages, ranging from infants to teenagers and even young adults, in some cases. Like a general or family dentist, they must first earn a DMD or DDS. But after earning their dental degree, a pediatric dentist goes through additional training, usually in a 2-3 year specialized pediatric residency program.
During this time, pediatric dentists learn more about how to interact with kids, childhood oral development, specialized treatments used to treat common dental issues in children, and other such topics. During this time, they gain unique knowledge that lets them provide expert care for kids.
While pediatric dentists don’t treat adults, they provide top-notch care for kids, so they’re a great option for your little ones, specifically if your children have dental anxiety, have serious dental issues, or may have special needs or other complications that make it harder for them to get dental care.
Should My Child See A Family Dentist Or A Pediatric Dentist?
Family dentists are convenient, but if you want the best possible care for your child in Brooklyn, it’s best to see a pediatric dentist like Dr. John Hansford. The reason is simple. Pediatric dentists have more experience, and focus exclusively on treating kids.
That means you’ll get better insights into your child’s oral health, get the proper treatment recommendations for their unique oral health challenges, and have peace of mind after treatment, knowing that they’re getting the best possible care at our child-friendly dental office.
Contact Greenpoint Pediatric Dentistry For A Consultation Today
Ready to get started with Greenpoint Pediatric Dentistry? Contact us online or give us a call at (929) 324-1140. Dr. Jones and Dr. John are always here to help kids throughout Georgia get the professional dental care they need for a healthier mouth.