Why Choose a Family Dentist Over Other Dentists

When a single person seeks dental care, they typically go for whoever provides the services they need. However, many find family dentists are the one-stop location for multiple family members needing dental treatment. Here are several benefits to seeking professional care from a family dentist.

Setting family dentists apart

Family dentists receive the same schooling as general dentists. However, they have the added years and experience of working with children and older adults. This means they must receive a license from an accredited dental program recognized by their practicing state. Therefore, no matter if a patient receives care for decay, broken teeth, tooth pain, or simply needs their biannual checkup, a family dentist can help.

Moreover, they have a different level of soft skills that change when caring for each patient. For example, caring for a child or an anxious adult will require more patience and a gentle nature than others. They may even have rooms or specific team members that cater to each type of patient.

Family dentists provide convenience

Along with convenience, family dentists have the knowledge and tools to meet the majority of a family's dental needs. Long gone are the days of running, taking multiple days off of work to schedule the kids' appointments, plus each parent. The office staff works with each patient to try to fit all family members within the same timeframe if they want.

Furthermore, this is a bonus for insurance companies as well, so patients do not have to keep contacting them to see if a service or dental provider is covered. Once everyone is under the same umbrella, dental staff can communicate with insurance companies more easily.

Family dentists provide familiarity

Familiarity is a commonly overlooked factor when searching for a dentist. Family dentists can spot conditions that may be hereditary, such as teeth misalignment, gum disease, or sensitive teeth, and provide early intervention or recommend best care practices to prevent the condition from taking root or worsening. By learning and addressing a patient's needs, family dentists can help build a positive experience that builds trust between dentist and patient.

Family dentists and their teams also take the time to get to know each patient on a personal level. They can learn the habits of each patient and make product and technique recommendations to improve their oral health. This is especially good for children establishing a foundation for their oral health. Dental anxiety can be common among children. To combat this, parents should get their child to the dentist starting at 12 months or when their first tooth erupts, according to the American Dental Association, or ADA. By doing so, they can become familiar with the family dentist and staff and even look forward to their appointments.