Specialists offer guidance on making sure your child’s dental experience is a good one

Choosing the right dental provider for your child is an important decision. Establishing those strong oral health habits early on can influence a child’s overall health and wellbeing for years to come.

These days parents are lucky. There seem to be so many options available. How do they know which dental provider is the best fit for their family?

According to pediatric dental specialists, families should look beyond convenience and focus on finding a provider whose training, communication style, and treatment philosophy align with their child’s needs and the family’s lifestyle.

“Kids are not adults in miniature. They are developing human beings who require a much more dynamic level of care and management,” said Ronald Hsu, DDS, a Delta Dental of Washington member dentist and owner of Storybook Dentistry in Camas. “Pediatric dentists complete an additional two to three years of specialized training after dental school, specifically focused on child growth and development, behavior guidance, and comprehensive pediatric oral health care.”

Dr. Hsu says finding the right fit between a family and a pediatric dental provider is critical.

“The child and family’s risk profile should match the philosophy of the dentist,” said Dr. Hsu. “A pediatric dentist should listen, understand, and tailor prevention and treatment plans according to the needs and abilities of the family.”

Board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Megan Miller, also a Delta Dental of Washington member dentist, owns Expedition Pediatric Dentistry in Bellevue. Dr. Miller agrees that parents should evaluate both credentials and the overall approach of a practice before scheduling an appointment.

“Look for a board-certified pediatric dentist who works with children all day, every day,” said Dr. Miller. “Beyond credentials, spend time reviewing the practice website, social media, and patient reviews. Parents should look for signs that the practice treats families as partners, explains recommendations clearly, and creates an environment genuinely designed for children.”

Experts also recommend scheduling a child’s first dental visit much earlier than many parents realize. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit a dentist within six months of getting their first tooth or by age one, whichever comes first.

“While there may only be a few teeth at that age, the first visit is really about education and prevention,” said Dr. Hsu. “It gives parents the opportunity to learn about cavity prevention, healthy habits, and what to expect as their child grows.”

Dr. Miller says those early appointments help establish what pediatric dentists call a “dental home.”

“It’s about creating familiarity and trust before there’s ever a problem,” said Dr. Miller. “Children who start dental visits early, often see the dentist as a normal and positive part of their routine.”

For parents who are worried about their child’s dental anxiety, both dentists say being calm and positive makes a major difference.

“Children take emotional cues from their parents,” said Dr. Hsu. “If parents are relaxed and positive, children are much more likely to feel comfortable too.”

Dr. Miller recommends treating dental visits as an ordinary experience rather than something to fear.

“Play dentist at home, count teeth together, and avoid using words like ‘shot,’ ‘drill,’ or even ‘this won’t hurt,’” said Dr. Miller. “The goal is to build familiarity and trust, so children feel safe and supported during their visits.”

For more information on pediatric dentistry – including tips for preparing your child for their first dental appointment – visit Delta Dental of Washington’s Knowledge Center.

About Delta Dental of Washington

Founded 70 years ago by Seattle area dentists who set out to revolutionize oral health care, an innovative program was developed to provide longshoremen’s children access to dental care – and the concept of dental benefits was born. Today Delta Dental of Washington, a not-for-profit, is the state’s leading dental benefits provider covering nearly 4 million people statewide and beyond.

Through corporate philanthropy, oral health advocacy, and funding the Arcora Foundation, Delta Dental of Washington plays a vital role in making dental care more equitable and accessible, increasing dental health education with an emphasis on youth, and expanding diversity at all levels within the dental profession. These collective efforts aim to improve oral health care in Washington so all people can enjoy good oral and overall health with no one left behind. Delta Dental of Washington is part of the Delta Dental Plans Association, consisting of 39 independent, affiliated member companies. For more information, visit: www.deltadentalwa.com