As a parent, chances are you’ve got a lot on your plate. Between taking your kids to school, sports practice, and their friends’ houses, you’ve got almost no time for yourself. Not to mention the fact that you have to take them to a pediatric dentist across town twice a year, which eats into your already limited free time. One way to save a little bit of time is by switching to a family dentist, or a practice that treats patients of all ages. Keep reading to learn the benefits of seeing a family dentist and how to select one that you and the kids will love.
Why You Should See a Family Dentist
While many practices are built around a specialty, a family dentist focuses on delivering as many aspects of care as they can under one roof. That includes treating children as well as older adults. Whether you’re taking your baby in for their first every dental checkup or you’re taking Grandma in for a new set of dentures, a family dental practice has just what you need to treat patients of all ages.
Family dentists also save you time and gas. Instead of trekking around town to different dental offices for you and for the kids, you can simply go together. Many family dental practices are happy to schedule you and your child’s appointments right next to each other so that you can make it a fun family outing.
How to Select the Right Family Dentist
Here are a few steps to take when choosing a dentist for you and your loved ones:
- Consider the needs of everyone in your family. Does the practice provide dentures or dental implants for those members who may be missing teeth? Do they provide orthodontic treatment should your son or daughter need it?
- Check the practice’s website to see if they have a section on pediatric care. Many times, dentists will choose to care for children, but will not devote a page of their site to kids’ dentistry. You need to make sure they will give your little one the utmost care.
- Also check the practice’s website for the dentist’s qualifications. Do they have the special pediatric training necessary? Are they a member of a trusted organization, like the American Dental Association?
Follow the tips listed above to make sure you find a dentist that you and your child will love. in addition, make sure your little one stays on top of their oral hygiene in between dental appointments. Make brushing and flossing a priority in your household by rewarding your son or daughter when they remember to clean their teeth on their own.
About the Author
Dr. Wael Kassem earned his doctorate in dentistry from Temple University in 2007. He has been named one of America’s top dentists several years in a row. His professional memberships include the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the New Jersey Dental Association. He has special pediatric training and is more than qualified to treat your entire family in the Williamstown, NJ community. To learn more, visit Dr. Kassem’s website.
