The best dental health habits start early — as early as we have teeth. Most dentists recommend that a child start brushing (and even flossing) as soon as their first tooth appears, regardless of the fact that that tooth will fall out within a few years. Likewise, seeing a specific dentist for kids (a pediatric dentist, to be technical) for semi-annual professional dental cleanings is a great habit to instill as soon as possible, ensuring good dental health — and possibly avoiding life-long fears of the dentist’s office.
A Good Old-Fashioned Search Engine
In these increasingly web-savvy days, it’s okay to let Google be your guide if you’re looking for… well, for just about anything, really. But even services and health professionals can be found using the search engine behemoth. You can search for local listings by including your town name (e.g. “Kirkland dentist for kids” or “pediatric dentist Miami Beach”), and that should help point you in the right direction to start with.
When Google Just Ain’t Enough
It’s entirely possible, though, that your local pediatric dentist doesn’t have much of a web presence. But don’t fret. The chances are quite good that the dentist you yourself see either A) works in the very same office with a qualified, caring, and super-approachable dentist for kids, or B) can easily refer you to another office to help you find the services you need. Dentists know other dentists. It’s a byproduct of going to dentistry school.
Set a Great Example
Parents who have good dental habits have kids who have good dental habits. Your little ones look up to you, and will emulate what they see you do. For certain habits, that’s a terrifying notion. But for good dental habits, it’s great news. By showing your kids how important (and completely how un-scary) it is to visit the dentist, you’re giving them a great head-start on a lifetime of strong, healthy, happy teeth.
If someone became a dentist for kids, then they probably enjoy working with children. Surly and unfriendly pediatric dentists don’t have much of a shelf life in the business, and rarely get repeat clients. Be that as it may, make sure both you and your kids get along with the dentist you choose. Then, you can both just sit back and smile. Read this for more.