When Should your Child Move from a Pediatric Dentist to an Adult Dentist?
As parents, we want the best for our children in all aspects of life, and their oral health is no exception. Choosing the right dentist for your child is a crucial decision, and it's important to consider when the time is right to transition from a pediatric dentist to an adult dentist. This transition marks a significant milestone in your child's dental care journey, and making the change at the appropriate time can greatly impact their oral health. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that should guide this transition and help you make an informed decision for your child.
The Role of a Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric dentists are dental specialists who are specifically trained to care for children's oral health needs from infancy through adolescence. They create a child-friendly environment and focus on providing dental care that is tailored to a young patient's unique needs and developmental stages. Pediatric dentists are experts in dealing with issues like teething, dental growth, and cavity prevention in children. But as your child grows, there will come a time when they will need to transition to an adult dentist.
Factors to Consider
Age and Development: One of the primary factors to consider when deciding when to switch to an adult dentist is your child's age and dental development. Most children can continue to see a pediatric dentist until they are teens, depending on their individual dental needs. However, many kids begin to build tartar in their early teens and should see a registered dental hygienist at an adult dental practice as early as twelve years old.
Oral Health Needs: Consider your child's specific oral health needs. If your child has been receiving specialized care for certain dental conditions, such as orthodontic treatment or complex oral surgeries, it may be best to continue with their pediatric dentist until their treatment is complete.
Communication Skills: As children grow into teenagers and young adults, they may have different concerns and questions about their oral health. Adult dentists are trained to communicate effectively with patients of all ages, addressing more complex issues and treatment options. If your child needs this level of communication, it may be time to make the switch.
Deciding when to move your child from a pediatric dentist to an adult dentist is a significant decision that should be based on a combination of factors. Your child's age, dental development, oral health needs, comfort level, and communication skills should all be taken into account. Maintaining open communication with your child's dentist and healthcare providers will help you make an informed choice that ensures your child's continued oral health and wellbeing.
Remember that the transition from a pediatric dentist to an adult dentist is a natural progression in your child's life. It's an opportunity for them to take more ownership of their oral health while receiving care from a dental professional who can address their evolving needs. If you have a child that is ready to make the jump to an adult dentist, please give us a call so we can talk to you and your child about starting the process and establishing their new dental home.
