CHILD PATIENTS
When asked who was the hardest to get to sit still in the examination chair, most dentists agree that children are one of it not the most difficult patients to treat. Many children are apprehensive about going to the dentist anyway, so no matter how qualified of a dentist you may find treating children to be quite a challenge.
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the needs of young people. Once you have completed a four-year program at dental school, to become a pediatric dentist, you will need an additional 3 years of training to be qualified. The extra training is vital to learning how to properly administer dental treatment to infants, children and teenagers as well as any child with special needs.
- There is a growing concern with the oral health of children as a part of their total health care. Establishing yourself as a child’s dentist gives you the opportunity to instill the importance of preventative dental care and good habits that will keep their smile bright and disease-free.
- A pleasant trip to the dentist office will promote confidence and trust in a child that will last throughout his or her life.
- Your goal should be to help every child that climbs into your chair to feel good about going to the dentist and teach them the best ways to care for their teeth.
- Design the decor in your office so that it is inviting to a younger crowd such as cartoon character wallpaper and kid-friendly reading material or toys to keep them from becoming restless as they wait.
- Train your staff to communicate with children in a nonthreatening manner that will help children to feel comfortable during the treatment.