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Your child’s first birthday is almost here, and it’s time for their first visit to the dentist. You might be feeling a little nervous; your baby has just started teething, and you’re wondering what to expect from their first appointment. As a parent, you want to make sure that your child is in expert hands—after all, it’s not every day that someone needs to stick something sharp into your baby’s mouth!

But don’t worry, this post outlines everything you need to make your child’s first dental appointment a positive experience for both of you. Keep reading for how to choose pediatric dentists in the Frankfort area!

How to Choose Pediatric Dentists in Frankfort, KY?

Choosing your child’s first dentist is an enormous deal. There are many factors to consider, and you need to spend lots of time researching. Below, we’ll take a look at what makes up the best dental practice for kids and how to find one in Frankfort, KY.

Treatment Options

When looking for a new dentist, it is important to find one who offers a wide range of services for improving dental health. This will give you and your child the most flexibility when making decisions about their oral health.

For example, some treatments depend on whether your child is still growing. Other services are based on what goals you have in mind for your kid’s teeth. As an example:

If your child needs braces, then it would be best to find a pediatric dentist who specializes in orthodontics. They can help determine if this type of treatment is right for them.

However, if your child just needs routine cleanings, then look for a pediatric dentist who offers general dentistry services. This way, you can get all of the necessary treatments in one place.

Insurance

Before deciding, confirm that your insurance plan covers the dentist you want to see.

Next, find out what percentage of the service will be covered by insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover the costs of preventive care, including routine exams, cleanings, and x-rays. However, partial coverage is not uncommon.

If your insurance won’t handle at least 50% of the bill, and you’re not open to out-of-pocket payments, reconsider your selection.

Does the Dentist’s Office Accept Your Insurance?

If you have insurance and are not sure if your dentist will accept it, call to ask. Many offices provide in-house financing instead of working with insurance companies. If you’re not interested in this option, find one that works with your insurer.

The second step is asking about any potential costs not covered by insurance. If anesthetic isn’t covered, for example, then this would impact your selection process.

Business Hours

You should also look for a dentist who offers flexible hours and weekend appointments. These things will make it easier to schedule treatment appointments that work with your family’s busy schedule.

Weekend hours are key here. They make it possible for you to take your child in for a dental checkup without having to miss work, school, or other obligations.

Reviews

When looking at your options for dentists, the best way to narrow down the list is by talking to the parents who have already been through this process. Reading online reviews is an excellent way to learn about local offices. You can read about their services and payment options, as well as what parents think about them.

Have a Conversation

To ensure the best pediatric dentistry experience for your little one, interview the doctor to be sure they meet your standards. Specifically, you’ll want to learn about how many years the dentist has been practicing. Inquire about any kinds of training that has helped make them an expert in working with children.

If your child has special needs, you’ll need a pediatric dentist who is knowledgeable about behavioral issues like anxiety or aggression. If your child has any kind of physical disability—for example, a wheelchair—look for someone who can accommodate their needs while still providing high-quality care.

Qualities of a Good Pediatric Dentist

Because children’s teeth are still developing, parents need to find a pediatric dentist who will pay special attention to this process.

A good pediatric dentist will understand how your child’s health affects their oral health. For example, a child with asthma may be more prone to cavities.

Your ideal dentist should also take into account the age of your child when making treatment recommendations or performing procedures. A baby’s first dental visit should involve very little work; however, an older toddler or preschooler might need fillings.

Some other factors that contribute to a great pediatric dentist include:

Friendly

The dentist should make an effort to get to know your child, which helps them to understand what makes them tick. If your child has trouble with anxiety, the dentist should have a sense of humor and be able to put your child at ease.

If a pediatric dentist doesn’t seem interested in learning about how your family works or what makes your children unique, keep looking!

Warm, Welcoming Environment

The environment in which your child receives dental care is just as important as the dentist you choose. A warm, welcoming office is critical to building trust with your child, and can also help prevent anxiety during their first visit. A comfortable waiting area is also key for parents who feel nervous about their child’s first pediatric dental appointment.

Experience

Dentists who are experienced in treating children understand how to communicate effectively with them, and they know what to expect from patients of different ages. They’ll be calm when dealing with your child’s fears—and that’s good news for both you and your child!

Find Your Child’s First Dentist

Now, you have a handy blueprint you can use to choose pediatric dentists. It’s easy to go with the first dentist that appears on Google, but your child deserves to have a professional who is truly invested in their oral health. That’s why we created Capitol Kids Dentistry.

We provide a comfortable and welcoming environment where your child can feel at home while they receive the best dental care possible. Schedule an appointment today to meet Dr. Haggerty and our team of dental professionals who are committed to helping your child have a lifetime of good oral health.