Finding the right pediatric dentist for your child shouldn’t leave you feeling defeated or disheartened. As a parent, you want someone with the knowledge, skill, and compassion to set your child’s smile up on the right track. While searching for a professional you can trust, you’re likely to have many questions. Fortunately, you will find the answers to three of them if you keep reading below.
What Kind of Education & Experience Should a Pediatric Dentist Have?
A pediatric dentist will have a general DDS (Doctor of Dental Sciences) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree from an accredited dental school as well as additional education and hands-on training in the area of pediatric dentistry.
It’s often required for these professionals to complete a residency in which they work closely with pediatric patients, learning more about the growth and development of young smiles as well as their many complexities. These programs can also include specialized training when it comes to special needs dentistry.
Dr. Cory not only has a DMD from Midwestern University but also obtained his specialty certificate in pediatric dentistry from Case Western Reserve University and the Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital in Cleveland, OH.
What Does a Pediatric Dentist’s Office Look Like?
Although not in all cases, many pediatric dental offices look vastly different from those that predominantly treat adult patients.
While some contain bright colors and goofy characters on the walls, others maintain a cleaner and more simplistic look with kid-friendly amenities and a small play area in the waiting room. This is to create a welcoming environment for children – one that helps them feel comfortable and safe while also enjoying the experience.
At G&G Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, the dental office contains state-of-the-art technologies as well as child-friendly spaces that include an area with toys and tablets. They also provide TVs on the ceiling for kids to watch during appointments.
Are Parents Allowed in the Treatment Room?
Knowing whether or not you will be allowed in the room with your child can be a deciding factor, especially if you have a little one who gets nervous about visiting the dentist. Knowing your child is safe and being taken care of properly is important, so finding out about a dentist’s protocols should be one of the first things you ask.
Fortunately, many dentists understand the uncertainty kids face as well as parents, so they open up their treatment rooms so that adults can stay close by while their child receives top-quality dental care.
This is true at G&G Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, too. When arriving for an appointment, both you and your child will be escorted to an area where X-rays and a gentle cleaning and exam will occur. You’ll then meet the pediatric dentist and go over the details of the visit and any treatment plan that might be recommended.
Establish what it is you want in a pediatric dentist before starting your search. Once you have your criteria, you’ll be able to narrow down your options until you find the right one.
About the Author
Dr. Cory Grathwol is a pediatric dentist in Naperville who enjoys spending time with kids. While in dental school at Midwestern University, he spent much of his time in the pediatric dental clinic where he discovered his true passion for helping young patients. Dr. Cory earned his certificate in pediatric dentistry from Case Western Reserve University and the Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital in Cleveland.
As a trusted and personable pediatric dentist, Dr. Cory aims to create an environment that kids and parents enjoy. If you are looking for a professional to take care of your child’s smile, contact us at (630) 778-9500 or visit our website.
