What Is a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist (also called a pedodontist) specializes in the oral health of children from infancy through the teenage years. After completing dental school, pediatric dentists complete an additional two to three years of residency training focused specifically on child development, behavior management, and the unique dental needs of growing patients.
Extra residency training pediatric dentists complete after dental school — focused on child development, behavior management, and developing teeth.
When Should My Child First See a Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child's first dental visit by their first birthday — or within six months of their first tooth erupting, whichever comes first. Early visits establish a dental home, allow the dentist to monitor development, catch issues early, and help parents build good habits before problems develop.
or 6 months after first tooth
What Happens at Your Child's First Visit?
✓ Gentle examination of teeth, gums, bite, and jaw development
✓ Cleaning and polishing for older children
✓ Fluoride treatment to strengthen developing enamel
✓ Guidance for parents on teething, thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and diet
✓ Open discussion of any concerns you have as a parent
Common Pediatric Dental Treatments
Sealants
Thin protective coating applied to back-tooth grooves to prevent cavities. Highly effective and painless.
Fluoride Treatments
Professional fluoride varnishes applied at each checkup strengthen tooth enamel and dramatically reduce cavity risk.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Baby teeth are worth treating — they hold space for permanent teeth. Composite fillings are the standard for children.
Space Maintainers
If a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer holds the gap open so the permanent tooth erupts in the right position.
Tips for Good Oral Health in Children
1 Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears, using a rice-grain amount of fluoride toothpaste.
2 Brush twice daily; begin flossing as soon as adjacent teeth touch.
3 Limit sugary drinks and snacks, especially between meals.
4 Never put a child to bed with a bottle of juice or milk.
5 Visit the dentist every 6 months for cleanings and checkups.
6 Use a custom mouthguard for any contact sports.
How to Choose the Right Pediatric Dentist
Child-Friendly Environment
A practice designed for children reduces anxiety and builds positive associations with dental care.
Behavior Management
Ask how the practice handles anxious or uncooperative young patients — tell-show-do is the gold standard.
Emergency Availability
Children have dental accidents — chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth. Ensure the practice has an after-hours line.
Sedation Options
For complex procedures or anxious children, nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or IV sedation may be available.
Find a Top Pediatric Dentist Near You
Browse our curated rankings of top-rated pediatric dentists by city. Every list is researched against patient reviews, credentials, and online reputation.
Browse Top Pediatric DentistsRelated Reading: What Is a Pediatric Dentist? | The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups