How to Pick a Pediatric Dentist

It is important to pick a dentist that specializes in pediatrics in order to keep a child’s teeth healthy. Finding a pediatric dentist to use requires the parent to do some research. Getting a solid recommendation from a trusted source is usually the best way to pick the right dentist for the child.

• Ask a friend or relative which pediatric dentist they use to care for their child’s teeth. Write down the information and then contact the dentist to set up an appointment for your child. Find out the location of the dentist’s office and make sure to arrive a few minutes early to fill out the necessary paperwork.


• Call your current dentist to get a recommendation for a pediatric specialist. Find out how long the pediatric dentist has been in business. Contact the dentist to arrange a time to take your child in for a consultation.  


• Go online to find a pediatric dentist in your area. Pull up a search engine and type “pediatric dentist” in the search box. Add the name of your city to the search string to narrow the results. Research a pediatric dentist you find, to decide whether to take your child in for treatment.


• Look in your local phonebook to find a pediatric dentist in your area. If the advertisement has a website, review it to find out the dentist’s qualifications. Call the dentist’s office to set up a meeting, so you can determine if your child will receive the proper care.


• Contact your insurance agent if you have dental insurance coverage for your child. Find out if the pediatric dentist is in the provider list. Ask the agent what forms you need to fill out in order to use the dentist. Make sure that you take the forms with you to the appointment so the dentist can fill out the section on provider information.