Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry

Good oral health starts in childhood, and that begins with early dental care. Families looking for pediatric dentistry in Philadelphia need to look no further than Penn Dental Family Practice, where a team of pediatric specialists provide child-friendly care to our youngest patients. Pediatric dentists complete additional training to work with children, including those with disabilities or developmental challenges. They have an in-depth understanding of treating children, including child development, children’s teeth, and working with youngsters who may not always be willing participants in their dental care.

Pediatric dental care at Penn Dental Family Practice is gentle and easy, and focused on helping your family develop positive dental habits. Make an appointment today.

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Who Should See a Pediatric Dentist?

Children of all ages qualify for pediatric dentistry in Philadelphia. Children should see a dentist as soon as they have their first tooth, or by their first birthday, and will likely continue to see a pediatric dentist through their teen years. Persons with disabilities who need extra support during their dental visits may also see a pediatric specialist.

Who Should See a Pediatric Dentist?
When Should Children Begin Seeing the Dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children have their first dental checkup around their first birthday. This initial visit helps your child get comfortable with going to the dentist and learn what to expect during visits.

When working with infants and toddlers, pediatric dental providers typically do a “knee to knee” exam. The child sits on a caregiver’s lap and leans back, allowing the dentist to have a look at their teeth and gums. In addition to giving the dentist a chance to evaluate your child’s oral health, this approach helps the child understand that the dentist is a friendly, helpful figure.

It can also be helpful to bring your young children along to dental appointments for their older siblings. Little ones get a chance to meet the dentist and see what happens during exams, helping them feel more comfortable when it’s their turn.

When Should Children Begin Seeing the Dentist?
Why Do Children Need to Start So Early?

Bringing your child to a pediatric dentist early in their life offers many advantages. Starting early helps your child feel more comfortable in the chair. Some children who don’t start going to the dentist in their first couple of years of life may have more fear and uncertainty when they finally do go for their first visit later on.

Pediatric dental care helps identify and treat early-onset issues before they become a problem. Giving younger children a healthy dose of preventative care helps them start good dental hygiene habits earlier, setting them on the path to a lifetime of oral health.

Why Do Children Need to Start So Early?
What Services Do Pediatric Dentists Offer?

Philadelphia pediatric dentistry at Penn Dental Family Practice includes a wide range of services for our young patients. Many services focus on preventative care, including cleaning, topical fluoride application, and general screenings. Additionally, if kids need further restorative treatment or extractions, their pediatric dentist can do that as well.

Because orthodontics often begin during late childhood and early adolescence, pediatric dentists also work closely with orthodontists and can offer a referral if necessary. Dental-related accidents (cracking or breaking a tooth, etc.) can be quite common in childhood as well, and our pediatric dentists are also prepared to treat dental emergencies.

What Services Do Pediatric Dentists Offer?
Is Pediatric Dentistry in Philadelphia Covered By Insurance?

Absolutely. Typically, pediatric dentistry receives even more coverage than services for adults. If you don’t currently have health insurance for your child, you can apply for Pennsylvania’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

CHIP is a state and federally-funded health insurance program that provides medical, dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage for children. In partnership with CHIP, Keystone Health Plan East, Inc., will help you determine your child’s eligibility for free, low-cost, or full-cost Keystone HMO CHIP insurance.

This health insurance option is available for all families residing in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. No family makes too much money to enroll. Learn more about Keystone HMO CHIP insurance by clicking here.

Is Pediatric Dentistry in Philadelphia Covered By Insurance?
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