By Dr. Kim Trieu
Parents today are fortunate to have a lot of options when it comes to finding a good dental provider for their children. It’s an important decision, and establishing strong oral health habits in the early years can influence a child’s overall health throughout their lives. So how is a parent to know which dental provider is the best fit for their family?
Families should look beyond convenience and focus on finding a provider whose training, communication style, and treatment philosophy align with their child’s needs and the family’s lifestyle.
Make sure you understand the provider’s approach to disease and treatment. Ask if it aligns with your family’s, also ask how quickly the provider intervenes, versus monitoring the situation. Every dentist has a slightly different philosophy regarding prevention, timing and treatment recommendations.
Second, does the dentist take time to understand the individual needs of your child and family? A child’s medical history, personality, developmental stage, or behavioral needs can greatly influence their dental experience. For example, a child with ADHD may have more difficulty maintaining oral hygiene routines or sitting through longer appointments. It’s important to find a provider who will recognize these challenges and work collaboratively with families to create modifications and strategies that help both the child and dental team succeed.
Experts also recommend scheduling a child’s first dental visit much earlier than many parents realize. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit a dentist within six months of getting their first tooth or by age one, whichever comes first.
Communication is also extremely important. Families should understand how updates are communicated after appointments? Is there time and space for parents to voice concerns or expectations?
If a child experiences significant dental anxiety, sensory sensitivities, behavioral challenges, or has special healthcare needs, parents should consider a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists receive additional training in child behavior management and often have more tools and modalities available to help make appointments successful and positive experiences. For parents worried about their child’s dental anxiety, being calm and positive makes a major difference.
Additionally, the physical environment of a pediatric dental office is often intentionally designed to help children feel calm, safe, and even excited about visiting the dentist. Many offices have colorful spaces, games, or child-friendly waiting areas that can ease anxiety before treatment even begins.
Most importantly, parents can model healthy habits at home through daily brushing, flossing, and by speaking about dental care as a normal and positive part of overall health.
For more information on pediatric dentistry—including tips for preparing your child for their first dental appointment—visit Delta Dental of Washington’s Knowledge Center.
Dr. Kim Trieu is a Delta Dental of Washington member dental provider serving at North Everett Family Dentistry, and also the mom of five children.
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