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What Should I Look for in a Pediatric Dentist?

  • March 8, 2018
  • 9:49 am
  • Dental Education, Pediatric
  • Pediatric Dentistry

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should visit the dentist after their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. Unfortunately, choosing a pediatric dentist is an incredibly difficult decision. Though you want someone who is professional and thorough, you also want to experience to be fun and relaxed for your child. As a pediatric dentist at Parkcrest Dental Group in Springfield, MO, Dr. Stuart Scott knows the qualities to look for in your child’s dentist. If you are struggling to choose a pediatric dentist, follow the blog advice below.

Related Post: Parkcrest Dental Group: What To Look For In A Dentist

Qualifications

Every pediatric dentist should meet certain basic qualifications. First, they should have the license that allows them to practice in your state. In Missouri, for example, all pediatric dentists should be licensed by the state of Missouri as a Dental Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry. When you are looking for a new dentist, never be afraid to ask about their license. Second, a qualified pediatric dentist should also be board certified in Pediatric Dentistry by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. With these qualifications, you ensure that your child receives professional dental care.

Knowledge

A good pediatric dentist will educate both parents and children on proper at-home dental care. With their knowledge of oral hygiene, they should teach children how to properly brush and floss and educate them on the dangers of soft drinks, candy, and other foods that can damage their teeth. They should also educate new parents about children’s dental care, explaining the best at-home practices, when to expect permanent teeth, and what to do when a child loses a tooth. Whatever they are teaching, a pediatric dentist should make an effort to be kid-friendly and easy-to-understand. At Parkcrest Dental Group, Dr. Stuart Scott always makes an effort to educate his patients and their parents during dental check-ups.

Related Post: General Dentistry And Common Dental Myths

Atmosphere

Let’s face it: going to the dentist can be an intimidating experience for a child. This is why a pediatric dentist should cater to children and create a fun, relaxed atmosphere. To make the experience fun, the dental office should be painted with bright colors and the waiting room should include hands-on toys. When you speak with the staff, they should be positive and friendly. By creating a fun atmosphere, your child is less likely to be afraid of the dentist, decreasing the number of oral health problems they face in the future.

Contact Dr. Stuart Scott

With his knowledge and experience, Dr. Stuart Scott strives to get your child excited about the dentist by creating a fun, kid-friendly atmosphere. His staff is always excited to speak with new customers, so give us a call today. To set up an appointment, contact Dr. Stuart Scott at (417) 887-1220!

 

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Meet Some Dentists in Springfield, MO

Some of the doctors at Parkcrest Dental Group

Dr. Stuart Scott (top left) is our pediatric dentist. He earned his degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry before completing a two-year residency at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Dr. Steven Harrison (top center) is board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. Dr. Harrison, our orthodontist, graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. He’s been with Parkcrest Dental Group since 1986.

Dr. Chanin Ropka (top right) attended UMKC before joining the United States Navy, where she served as the only dentist on board the USS Germantown and at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego. Dr. Ropka began at Parkcrest Dental in 2001.

Dr. Daniel Fannin (bottom left) graduated from UMKC School of Dentistry in 1997. He completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency in 1998 before joining Parkcrest Dental Group that same year.

Dr. Steven C. Sponenberg (bottom center) has been a Springfieldian his entire life. He graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska, in 2004 before joining Parkcrest Dental Group immediately after.

Dr. Jason Hall (bottom right) is also a native Springfieldian. He earned his DDS from the University of Missouri at Kansas City Dental School in 1997. He came to Parkcrest Dental Group in 2010. Dr. Hall’s father, Stan, is also a dentist.

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