Is there anything that's done differently about pediatric dental exams? we're going to take our year old daughter in for her first dentist appointment, and would like to know what, if anything, is done differently during pediatric dental exams versus norm

General : General dental exams vary little whether the patient is young or old. The health of the teeth, gums, and soft tissues are assessed. With children, the eruption sequence is evaluated to make sure the teeth are coming in properly and have sufficient space. The size and growth of the jaws is also assessed. The biggest difference is the manner in which the exam is done as it is difficult to rationalize with children, instead special management techniques are used.

I : I agree completely with the other answers that you have been given. General dentists as well as pedodontist have the same objectives when doing patient exams. Of course there will be a greater emphasis on tooth eruption and growth patterns for children, but the most noticable difference that you will see is the management style that will assure a positive experience for your child.

I : I do agree with most of the prior posts. A pediatric dentist has two more years of training with children, adolescents, and special needs patients. Usually the pediatric dental office is more animated and upbeat which helps the children relate and feel more comfortable. In my area most general dentist will not take kids until three or at all. Pediatric dentist like to start children at one or two and the ultimate goal is to avoid a traumatic experience at the dentist. With those two years of additional education, pediatric dentist concentrate on growth and developement of the child and behavioral management techniques to put your child at ease.

Normally : Normally the first visit for a child isn't much different, but may be a little long. This is normally due to the extra time taken to make sure the visit is as possitive as possible. "jazz hands" and "happy dance" routines often help the scared children feel better. Sometimes very little is seen in the mouth, as the very young are difficult to work with. The goal should be a happy experience.