Glenview Pediatric Dentist
What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a specialist with two additional years of post-graduate training beyond dental school. Their specialty lies in the diagnosis of dental problems in children. Dr. Cohen is not a pediatric dentist, although he truly enjoys seeing kids and is trained in providing basic dental care for children. If a case is encountered with your child that requires a specialist, we will certainly refer your child to a local pediatric dentist.
Parents love the added convenience that comes from the entire family seeing the same dentist. We have found that this is a great way for the family to get to know the dentist better. A high level of trust is built over the years which creates an added level of comfort when addressing the dental concerns of your children.
Fun at the Dentist
Far too many parents have had a bad dental experience when they were a child. We are out to help change that mentality and feel that going to the dentist can be fun. By the age of three years old, we encourage you to schedule a routine dental visit for your child. Our goal is for your child to have a positive first trip to the dentist. When you put off visiting the dentist, it is often a dental emergency that brings your child into the office.
To make your child’s dentist appointment fun, we let them watch cartoons during their treatment on one of our in-room televisions. Also, we use videos that use monkeys to teach them correct brushing techniques. Kids love our dinosaur flosser and they get to pick out a balloon after the appointment.
Pediatric Dentistry Tips for Parents
- As soon as the teeth have erupted in your child’s mouth, begin cleaning them with a damp cloth. When they have completely come in, you can use a soft toothbrush.
- Gentle dentistry is important for kids. Find a dentist that will take it slow and make things as gentle and fun as possible.
- Be a good example. Let them watch you brush your teeth and then brush their teeth for them until they are ready to do it on their own.
- Around three years of age you can introduce flossing. Floss between each of their molars so they get use to it. Although, it won’t likely be until around the age of eight where they will successfully be able to floss on their own.
- Be proactive and don’t wait until it is too late. The last thing we want is for a dental emergency to be your child’s first exposure to the dentist. When this happens they will likely associate going to the dentist with pain. The more routine, positive appointments children have at a young age will pave the way for healthy dental habits when they are older.