There are now over 182,000 dental practices in the US, employing over 955,400 dental professionals. If you’re searching for a pediatric dentist, you’ll need to narrow down your options. Finding the right children’s dentist can give you peace of mind.

Here are eight qualities to look for when searching for a Spanish Fork pediatric dentist. With these tips, you’ll have an easier time narrowing down your options.

Finding the best dentist for children will help you prioritize your family’s oral health. You can reduce the risk your children will develop cavities and other issues as a result. Instead, you can work with your dentist to keep your children’s teeth sparkly clean.

Start your search with these tips for finding a pediatric dentist in Spanish Fork today!

Strong Credentials

First, it’s important to find a dentist with the proper credentials.

Talk to your inner circle. Ask your friends and family members if they can recommend a Spanish Fork pediatric dentist. They could help streamline your search.

If your inner circle can’t help, that’s okay! Start your search by Googling “pediatric dentist near me.” Then, make a list of potential options.

You can use these tips to narrow down your options.

Take the time to learn more about each dentist’s credentials. For example, you’ll want to make sure they have the proper training and education.

Choose Spanish Fork dentists who are part of professional organizations, such as the:

  • American Dental Association (ADA)
  • Academy of General Dentistry
  • American Academy of Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH)
  • American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM

Many of these organizations focus training, time, and research on various areas of dental medicine. Members are obligated to follow the academy’s code of conduct.

These dentists are more likely to meet higher treatment standards, too.

Look for a dentist that focuses on continuing education programs. These dentists will remain up-to-date with new forms of treatment. Otherwise, the dentist might use outdated techniques or information.

Make sure to ask each dentist for proof of their board certification and credentials.

Years of Experience

The best pediatric dentist will have the proper training and years of experience they’ve learned from. Choosing an experienced children’s dentist will give you peace of mind in their abilities.

First, determine how long each dentist has practiced. Consider how long they’ve owned their own dental practice, too. A pediatric dental practice that’s lasted in the area for years has likely earned the trust of local parents.

A dentist that has a strong professional reputation will want to maintain that reputation. They’ll strive to meet the highest standards of care.

You can learn more about each children’s dentist by looking for their biography online.

Consider how each dentist goes above and beyond for their patients, too. For example, are they involved in community events?

Make sure the dentist you choose has experience working with children. Ask if they have experience with young patients who have dental anxiety, too. An experienced dentist will know how to make your child comfortable during their appointment.

Ideal Hours and Locations

It’s not enough to find an experienced dentist. Instead, pull up Google again. Determine where each dental practice is located.

Try to find a practice that’s close to your home, work, or child’s school. Otherwise, it might feel tedious to drive your child across town for an appointment.

Make sure the practice is located in a safe area as well. Are you comfortable driving your child to that area? If not, scratch that pediatric dentist off your list.

Consider each practice’s hours, too. An office that offers flexible hours could make your life easier.

Are you looking for an emergency pediatric dentist? Consider finding a practice that has longer hours. If there’s an emergency, you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re open and available.

A Strong Reputation

Remember, a Spanish Fork pediatric dentist who has a strong professional reputation will want to maintain that reputation. In fact, over 90% of people read reviews to determine a local business’s quality. You can, too.

Look for reviews on the practice’s Google My Business and Better Business Bureau (BBB) listing. If the dentist has a complaint filed against them, scratch them off your list.

You might find one or two negative reviews. That’s normal.

If the negative reviews outweigh the positive comments, however, look for another dentist.

The Right Services

Before choosing a pediatric dentist, make sure they offer the services your family needs. For example, your children might need braces or Invisalign in the future. Does the practice have an orthodontist on staff?

Can the dentist offer fillings and sealants in the office?

If your child has dental anxiety, you might want to look for an office that offers sedation dentistry, too.

Your Insurance

Before choosing a dentist, consult your insurance plan. If the dentist doesn’t fall within your network, that’s okay. Instead, ask the dentist if they offer any payment plans or discounts.

Prioritize finding a pediatric dentist you’re comfortable with. Otherwise, you’ll likely get what you pay for.

Comfort

Consider scheduling a teeth cleaning appointment with one of the dentists on your list.

Does the waiting room look organized? Is the staff friendly and able to answer your questions?

Consider how your child feels around the dentist, too. Choose a dentist that’s great with kids and easy to understand.

If your child is uncomfortable, consider choosing someone else on your list.

Brush Up: The Qualities to Look For in a Spanish Fork Pediatric Dentist

You don’t have to choose the first pediatric dentist you find online. Instead, keep these tips in mind when looking for a Spanish Fork pediatric dentist. Prioritizing these qualities can help you find a dentist you can trust.

You’ll have peace of mind knowing your family is well taken care of.

Ready to schedule your child’s first appointment? We can’t wait to see you.

Contact us today to get started.