Why Should My Child See a Pediatric Dentist Instead of a General Dentist?
Did You Know?
Pediatric dentists complete 2-3 years of additional specialized training beyond dental school, focusing on early teeth and jaw development, child psychology, and age-specific dental care. That extra training means pediatric dentists are better equipped to handle childhood-specific issues like thumb sucking, spacing problems, anxiety, and habits that general dentists see far less often. Holly Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Simpsonville, South Carolina has been providing children's dental care to families in the greater Greenville area for over twenty years. For children under 2, the first visit is free through our First Smiles program.
We’ve been providing childrens’ cleanings and dental care in the Simpsonville and greater Greenville SC area for over twenty years. In that time, we’ve seen more area dental offices offer full-family services, from childhood to adults. For parents looking for a great dentist for their child, weighing which type of dental office to choose is important. So we’re delving deeper into why we recommend using a pediatric dentist for your child’s dental needs and what sets them apart from general dentistry practitioners. Top reasons you should choose a pediatric dentist for your children's dental needs:
What Specialized Training Do Pediatric Dentists Have?
A family dentist or general dentist provides a large range of services to all age ranges. These dental offices typically focus on more general issues and some cosmetics but aren’t as adept at the differences in children's teeth and growth and development. Pediatric dentists, on the other hand, require 2-3 years of additional specialized training focusing on early teeth/jaw development and even child psychology after completing dental school. This deeper breadth of knowledge in the development of children’s teeth allows pediatric dentists to better understand and care for young childrens’ dental needs. So while many services such as cleanings, x-rays, filling cavities, and treating gum and jaw problems may be similar, what sets pediatric dentists apart is how tailored their level of care is to the specific age of the child. They are able to more effectively address age-related problems such as habits, spacing issues, and broken teeth. Simply put - the more tailored the care, the better. And who doesn’t want what’s best for their child?
How Does a Pediatric Dentist's Experience Differ From a General Dentist?
Along with specialized education, working day to day with just children enables pediatric dentists to experience more unique situations related to youth dental development. They are better suited to advise parents of childhood issues like thumb sucking, loose baby teeth, and dental cleaning routines. Pediatric dentists are also trained to better deliver essential dental treatments with the best experience for the patients.
How Do Pediatric Dentists Handle Dental Anxiety in Kids?
Another positive of choosing a pediatric dentist for your child’s dental care is simply the atmosphere and patient care. Pediatric dentists have deeper experience in dealing with child anxiety and tend to create offices that ease fears and build trust. Our office for instance is designed like an aquarium with fun colors, fish, and animals. Our children are treated to prizes after a successful cleaning or visit, and we specifically strive to make each child smile and laugh while they’re here with us. Pediatric dentists experience the good and the bad of seeing young patients and are better able to handle difficult situations such as anxiety and building a long-lasting rapport for successful future visits. What’s a con then of having your children attend a pediatric vs a general dentist? Once the child enters adulthood, we usually refer them to a family or general dentist.
But if you’re in our Greenville area and want to find a place with just one location for the whole family, check us out. Holly Tree Pediatric Dentistry is in the same building as Dr. Ann Bynum’s husband’s practice - Bynum Aesthetic Dentistry. Not only does Dr. Matt Bynum and his team provide exceptional general dentistry, but they are renowned for their cosmetic services such as teeth whitening, dental implants, sleep apnea solutions, and smile restorations.
Our practices are like family and so our patients, and we would love to have you (and yours) join our dental family! If you’re in the area and would like to set up an initial appointment with either Holly Tree Pediatric Dentistry or Bynum Aesthetic Dentistry, call us at (864) 297-5585. For your child’s first appointment, we offer free visits to any child under 2. Come experience Holly Tree’s inviting and fun atmosphere today!
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist for kids?
A general dentist can see children but doesn't specialize in them. A pediatric dentist has 2–3 additional years of training specifically focused on children's tooth development, pediatric behavior management, and treating patients from infancy through young adulthood. For most families, that difference becomes clear at the very first visit.
At what age should my child start seeing a pediatric dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first dental visit by their first birthday, or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits establish healthy habits, allow for preventive care, and prevent future anxiety.
Does Holly Tree Pediatric Dentistry accept new patients near Greenville, SC?
Yes. Holly Tree Pediatric Dentistry is located at 1334 Hwy. 14 in Simpsonville, serving families throughout the Greenville metro area including Simpsonville, Woodruff, Laurens, Fountain Inn, and Clinton. Call (864) 297-5585 to schedule.
Does Holly Tree offer a free first visit?
Yes! Through our First Smiles program, children under age 2 receive a free first dental visit. We believe in removing barriers to early preventive care.
How do I find the best pediatric dentist near Simpsonville, SC?
Holly Tree Pediatric Dentistry has 1,100+ Google reviews with a 4.8-star rating - one of the highest-rated pediatric practices in Upstate South Carolina! Our ocean-themed, child-friendly office and team of specialists make visits something kids actually look forward to.