Some dentists specialize in treating children through multiple stages in life while others are more comfortable working with adults. But why spend the extra time and effort to take you and your little ones to several different practices when everyone can get the care they need at just one? Here are 4 reasons why finding a dentist that can provide regular cleanings and other services for the entire family could leave you and everyone else with a bigger, brighter smile.
1. It’s More Convenient Overall
It can be time-consuming to drive the entire family to appointments at different practices at different times. If you find a family dentist, you and your loved ones can all be treated at the same location. It can also make it easier to schedule appointments; after all, if everyone is seeing the same dentist, then it makes sense for their checkups to be on the same day. Finally, it will just generally be easier to manage your family’s dental care when there’s just one dentist handling their treatment.
2. They Tend to Offer More Services
Family dentists need to be versatile. Treating a baby who just got their first teeth is very different than helping a senior who wears dentures. While some practices might need to refer you to a specialist for certain services, a family dentist generally will be able to provide many different kinds of care under one roof.
3. It Will Make It Easier for Your Children to Trust the Dentist
It’s important to make sure your children feel safe and comfortable during their dental visits; having a negative experience early in life could cause them to develop a severe phobia that makes it less likely that they’ll seek out the care they need as an adult. By seeing a dentist that’s on friendly terms with everyone in their family, your little ones will feel much more at ease, especially if they see you receiving the same kind of treatments.
4. It Makes It Easier to Keep Track of Dental History
While dental health largely depends on your ability to keep your teeth and gums clean, some issues are passed down from parent to child. For example, if your genes put you at a higher risk for gum disease or caused you to be born without one of your teeth, chances are your children will suffer from the same problem. It’s more likely that genetic and hereditary disorders can be diagnosed in your little ones early on if their dentist already has your dental history on file.
When looking for a family dentist, don’t forget to ask about what they offer and what they can do to keep your children relaxed during their visits. Make sure that you find a practice that gives you and your loved ones everything you need to enjoy life with beautiful grins!
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller has been bringing families in Fox Chapel and nearby areas excellent dental care since 1981. From checkups and cleanings to dentures and orthodontics, he’s skilled in providing all kinds of oral health care for children and adults alike at his practice, Voller Dentistry. To schedule an appointment for yourself or your entire family, visit his website or call (724) 543-4948.