Most people look online or in the yellow pages to find a dental office they can call home. Most don’t pay much attention and don’t ask a lot of questions, determining that their insurance is taken and office hours. However, when searching out a pediatric dentist in Jacksonville area, it is best to consider what your child needs and do as much research on different options, because one bad experience and your child will likely fight every time they have to go get a dental checkup.
Child Friendly
Children’s dentists will usually have a child-friendly office that includes kid-sized furniture, toys and decorations. Usually, entertainment is provided in the way of kid-friendly television shows, fish aquariums and other fun distractions. You’ll usually see handouts that show pictures of girls and boys brushing and flossing their teeth properly and are easy to read for older children. These points are incredibly important so that kids feel comfortable in the environment.
Can Parents Be There?
Each dental office is different and each has a specific policy about parents being allowed in the treatment room with their child. In many cases, you will be allowed in for the first visit to help ease your child’s mind. However, most teams want to visit with the child alone to help them get used to trusting the pediatric dentist and the team, which sometimes doesn’t happen when parents are in the room.
Insurance
Insurance is an important factor because otherwise you’ll have to pay out of pocket for any treatment your child needs, which can get expensive. When researching new dentists for your child, make sure one of the first questions refers to your insurance and whether or not the office accepts it. If not, you’ll need to find another option or pay for all treatments yourself.
Questions/Concerns
When you call to find out more about the office, make sure you have a list of questions or concerns. Let them know you are interested in their office and make sure you talk about any special needs your child may have. Then, consider asking about their specific parents’ policy, what happens in a dental emergency and any other questions you feel are pertinent. Make sure your questions are met with sincerity, respect and sensitivity.
When in the office, encourage your child to ask questions, also and make sure the answers are age-appropriate and reassuring.
