Just one negative dental experience could ruin your child’s trust and impression of dentists for the rest of his life. So why not make sure that every dental experience is as positive and happy as possible?
We’re sure there are a few adults out there who are still afraid of going to see the dentist or doctor because of a past negative experience. Think your mom or dad saw the red flags beforehand? Or even knew what to look for in a pediatric dentist?
If you want your child to have only happy and positive memories of the dentist, then here are our top 7 mistakes to avoid when choosing a pediatric dentist in Hurst.
1. Not Making Sure Your Dentist Is and Licensed and Certified
One of the biggest mistakes you could make is not choosing a licensed pediatric dentist. A license permits your dentist to practice dentistry in your state. The license is approved and given by the state board.
State dental licensing boards have a set of conditions for prospective dentists beyond the degree and examinations’ requirements.
For example, some states require that dentists have Basic Life Support certification. Other states may require a background check, documentation of hepatitis B vaccination, or proof of having taken courses on specified topics.
Here is what the Texas State Board of Examiners requires to qualify to take the dentist licensure exam.
Board certification is not a requirement, but it shows your dentist possesses a high level of training and experience.
You will often see certifications and licenses of dentists displayed in the reception area of a dental clinic. If this is not the case, do not hesitate to ask the dentist about it.
We value transparency, and we understand you have questions about the person you are trusting with your child’s oral care.
We made it easy for you. You can learn more about our pediatric dentists and orthodontists here on our page. We’ve included their educational background, honors, and awards received, as well as their professional philosophies.
When looking for a pediatric dentist in Hurst for your children, there is no such thing as too safe!
2. Choosing a Dentist Who Doesn’t Specialize in Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric dentists specialize in oral health for children. If you wouldn’t choose a general practitioner as your child’s doctor, then you probably wouldn’t choose a dentist who doesn’t specialize in pediatric dentistry as your child’s dentist either.
It takes an additional two to three years of specialized training to become a pediatric dentist. During these extra years of training, a pediatric dentist learns how to deal with children’s behavior, make kids feel comfortable, and learns how to create a pleasant overall experience.
That specialized training could make all the difference when your child has a potential meltdown because of common first-time fear of going to the dentist. A pediatric dentist will know how to handle and comfort most fussy children.
3. Not Prioritizing References and Reviews
A good sign of a happy customer is a customer who left a great review, and the same can be said about an unhappy customer leaving an unpleasant review. If you see multiple people leaving negative reviews, then this is your sign to avoid this place at all costs.
We are incredibly proud of the numerous five-star reviews our happy customers left us!
4. Going to a Pediatric Dentist in Hurst That Isn’t Fun and Welcoming
Many children have a fear of going to the dentist, and in fact, even some adults still do as well! When looking for a pediatric dentist in Hurst, you want to find a practice that makes the new and unfamiliar experience a fun and welcoming one for your child.
Take a look around the practice and see if you notice some touches here and there that show they prioritize making children feel as welcome as possible.
Some examples would be their use of fun and engaging decor and staff with warm and friendly personalities. The practice doesn’t have to look and feel like a circus, as long as you can tell their staff go the extra mile to make it a positive experience for children.
Before booking an appointment, you can take your child with you and gauge how they treat your child. Are they warm and friendly to your child, or do they completely ignore him or her and talk only to you?
5. Going for a Pediatric Dentist That Isn’t up to Date With Current Practices
Since medical health care practices are rapidly changing and evolving, you should be looking for a pediatric dentist that is knowledgeable on all procedures and updates, basic and advanced alike.
Also, take a look around and make sure their equipment looks well up to date as well.
6. Does the Pediatric Dentist Take a Proactive Approach?
It is always better to be proactive instead of reactive, and pediatric dentistry is no exception. Children are much more susceptible to tooth decay than adults, so you want to find a pediatric dentist who can recognize problems before they become even more problematic.
Children should have regularly scheduled visits with their dentist. Taking your child to the dentist only when they start to feel pain can cause even more damage. As they say, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure!
7. Accepting That Your Dentist Isn’t Open to Communication
Building a trusting relationship with your child’s dentist is as important as building trust with your child’s babysitter or teacher. If you and your child’s dentist, or potential dentist, can’t see eye to eye, then it may be best to look for someone else.
They should be open to communication and all ears when you voice out your concerns. Your child’s oral health is essential, and you need to know that your baby is in good hands.
Pay Attention To Red Flags
We hope our list of 7 mistakes to avoid when choosing a pediatric dentist in Hurst has given you the confidence to seek out the best option for your child!
If you’re planning a first-time visit for your child, contact us so we can schedule an appointment. We promise to make your child’s experience with us as fun, relaxing, and enjoyable as possible!