What’s the difference between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist?

At Expedition Pediatric Dentistry, we know that choosing the right dentist for your child can be confusing. There are many dentists who can care for your child, but some are more prepared to address the specific needs of kids than others. That’s why today we’re exploring the difference between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist!

It starts with dental school

Dentists, who all complete three or four years of dental school after college, are qualified and permitted to care for pediatric patients. Pediatric dentists complete two or three years of additional training following dental school. As you know, children are not just tiny adults and their dental healthcare needs can be vastly different from their parents. 

Then, you have a pediatric dental residency

Pediatric dental residency includes courses on pediatric medicine, child psychology, behavior guidance, growth and development, pediatric pathology, and the specific procedures that are unique to baby teeth. Residency training also requires experience in the hospital and on rotation with pediatricians, where you learn more about dental trauma and collaborating with pediatricians and other pediatric specialists. Once you learn so much about how to treat kids and specialize in pediatric dentistry, it is hard to imagine treating adults because they seem so different! 

Finally, there’s also a Pediatric Dental Board Certification

Beyond completion of a pediatric dental residency, pediatric dentists, unlike family dentists, also have the option to become board-certified. Board certification requires additional examinations, including an oral exam where pediatric dentists are evaluated by experts in the field. To maintain board certification, pediatric dentists must continue to recertify and maintain continuing education standards that far exceed the minimum required by the state board. 

Meet Dr. Miller: Your Pediatric Dentist in Bellevue

Dr. Miller worked as a family dentist seeing kids before she became a pediatric dentist. She decided to return to school and complete a residency program because she was passionate about providing the most advanced care possible, which required additional training and exposure to a wider variety of clinical scenarios.

Dr. Miller then decided to pursue board certification because it would help her ensure she was staying up to date with the latest advances in pediatric dentistry. Learn more about Dr. Miller and her background in pediatric dentistry!

About Expedition Pediatric Dentistry

At Expedition Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that healthy teeth and gums are the foundation for your child’s overall well-being. Whether it’s speaking clearly, eating comfortably, or simply flashing a confident smile, we strive to give your child the best start in life.

Your child’s oral health is more than just a set of teeth. It’s an integral part of their development and their ability to thrive in the world. That’s why we take a comprehensive approach to care, considering your child’s unique needs, values, and goals!

We also know that your child is more than just a patient. They are a person with their own preferences and interests. That’s why we take the time to get to know your child and create a personalized plan for their care. We believe that this personalized approach is the key to ensuring their optimal oral health and overall well-being.

At Expedition Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to staying on the cutting edge of pediatric dental care. We are always reading the latest research and implementing evidence-based practices to give your child the best possible care. But we also understand that every child is different, which is why we take a holistic approach to treatment, considering your child’s unique needs and goals.

If you have any questions or concerns about the differences between a family dentist and a pediatric dentist, don’t hesitate to send us a message. We are here to help!