What should you be looking for in a dentist for kids near me? This guide will let you know what you should be looking for.

1. Consider Their Location

Ideally, the kid's dentist that you end up choosing should be one that's relatively close to where you live. The last thing you want is to sit in traffic with young children for longer than you need to. I'm sure most parents can agree on this point! 

Another reason why you should scout out a nearby dentist for kids is in case of dental emergencies. Yes, they happen, and you should be able to reach your dentist in a good time frame, i.e. no longer than half an hour. 



Look for a dentist that's located close to your kid's school if you can't find any near your home. This way, you can do the school pick up then quickly head straight to the dentist after. 

It's no secret that dental anxiety among children is common -- it's even common in many adults.

You want to choose a pediatric dentist with a good understanding of dental anxiety. They should know how to work with children to make their experience a positive one. 

Don't shy away from speaking to your dentist about your child's anxieties. Ask about the steps they take to make children feel more comfortable. 

3. Inquire About Qualifications and Licenses

This is a no-brainer. A dentist for kids must have adequate qualifications and licenses to operate. You may feel that it's presumptuous to ask for proof of a dentist's qualifications. Nevertheless, it's still important to ask for them.

At any rate, a qualified dentist with years of experience shouldn't feel offended by this request. They should understand that you're just doing your research as a parent.



Keep in mind that a pediatric dentist requires specialized training to treat children. Always ensure the dentist you opt for carries certification by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. 

4. What Variety of Services Do They Offer?

Before you book your child's dental checkup, do some research on the variety of services they offer. It's crucial that they offer specialized care.



While there's nothing wrong with general care dental practices, they might not be equipped to deal with the dental care that a child needs. 

Yes, pediatric dentists still offer general dental care. But they are specifically trained to work with children and can also offer specialized care as and when it's needed. 

5. Look for a Cheerful Practice Atmosphere

The overall atmosphere of a dental practice, especially one that treats children, makes all the difference. This is something you want to pay close attention to when scouting out dental offices. 

Make sure the practice caters to children and offers plenty of fun kid's activities in the waiting area. This is a great way to keep your child happy and distracted before their dental checkup if they struggle with dental anxiety. 



A cheerful atmosphere can also help you relax as a parent and makes for an overall positive experience for you both. 

6. Research Practice Reviews

It's always a good idea to do your own research on what other people are saying about their experience with a pediatric dental practice. In today's world, there's very little you can't find online. 

While it's wise to take reviews with a grain of salt, it's still a good way to get a clear idea of what you can experience from their services. Obviously, you want to focus on the positive feedback, but don't ignore the criticisms, either. 



If you're not confident with what you can find online, ask the practice if they have any references you can contact. Ultimately, you want to go for a dental practice that has a good number of reviews on it. 

7. They Should Take After-Hours Calls

As mentioned earlier, dental emergencies happen. And among kids, this is a common occurrence. That's why you want to choose a pediatric dentist that's not only close to where you live, work, or where your kids go to school. But one that also offers after-hour care.



If you're unsure, ask the practice what their policy is on taking emergency calls and the hours that they operate. It's important to have that peace of mind that your dentist will be there for you and your child when you need them most. 

8. Choose a Dentist That Genuinely Loves Kids

If a dentist has chosen to specialize in pediatrics, they must love kids, right? Well, this might not always be the case. The only way to get a true feel for this is to book a meet and greet consultation with a dentist to gauge how they interact with your kid(s). 



Look for a dentist that knows how to engage, entertain, and also distract children in order to make them feel more comfortable and relaxed. All in all, they should be able to relate to your children in a way that displays a good understanding of child behavior. 

Where Can I Find a Dentist for Kids Near Me?

If you find yourself asking the above question, look no further than our Dental Studio 4 Kids. Here you can find a pediatric dentist in Lutz, FL to meet all the oral health needs of your children. 



We specialize in infant care as well as children's dentistry. Along with cosmetic dentistry, braces, as well as sleep-disordered breathing conditions. Looking for a dentist for kids near me? Get in touch with our team today.