Use This Checkist When Selecting a Dentist for Your Child
Oral health is of great importance, as numerous studies have linked it to one's overall health. When the time comes to choose a pediatric dentist atlanta ga, parents often wonder how to go about making this selection. The following checklist helps those in this situation find the right professional for their son or daughter.
Begin the search for a pediatric dentist atlanta by asking friends and family for recommendations. Many also ask health care professionals, such as their pediatrician, for advice when searching for a dentist. Doing so can help to narrow one's choices significantly.
Don't hesitate to make use of local magazines and review sites to help limit one's list also. The goal is to find a dentist with additional training that addresses working with children. This training covers child growth and development along with child psychology.
Determine what services are offered at the practice. Most dentists offer standard services, like cleanings and restorative work, yet some now offer orthodontics. Parents may prefer this option, as it means they have one less professional to see, but this isn't always the best choice. One needs to take the child's wants and needs into consideration.
Meet with the dentists remaining on the list. Discuss their priorities at different stages of a child's development. During infancy, the majority of dentists focus on preventative care and education. As the child grows, the focus turns to correcting dental issues that arise. Throughout the teen years, the dentist turns his or her attention to life experiences the child may encounter. A teen may try drugs or alcohol or may wish to have an oral piercing. The dentist needs to explain the risks of these and other behaviors and habits, so children and parents can make informed decisions.
Consider the atmosphere when choosing a dentist for a child. The office should be kid friendly and provide opportunities to reduce the child's fears. Staff members should be respectful to parents and children, and the dentist should never lose his or her patience with a child. In addition, the dentist should explain procedures to children, so they know what to expect at every stage.
Many, when searching for a pediatric dentist atlanta, visit www.childteen.com/ to learn more about Dr. Powell and his practice. Dr. Powell only works with children and teens and has created a fun and friendly atmosphere any kid will enjoy. Children love the salt-water aquariums, video games and in-house movie theater found in his office. The atmosphere is very soothing to help ease fears. Once parents see how great this office is, they won't want to take their child anywhere else.
