I have a minor problem. The only pediatric dentist within 50 miles is my ex boyfriend. I’m having my first child in a month. Does my child need a pediatric dentist or will a general dentist be sufficient? Does this question make me a terrible mother before I even start?

Elise L. – Montana

Elise,

Let me assure you that your question does not make you a bad mom. If you didn’t care enough to ask the question and just took him to whereever you were comfortable, then I might wonder.

A general dentist is well qualified to treat children. However, not all of them like to. You’ll want to look for a dentist who enjoys pediatric dentistry. You can generally tell a couple of ways. 1. You could ask. 2. They’ll have a page on their website about pediatric dentistry.

However, you’ll want someone who is comfortable seeing children at a young age. If they say they’ll see children as young as two or three, then you can know they’re comfortable with children. If they want to wait until they are 8 or 9, then I would look for a different dentist…obviously.

This blog is brought to you Oklahoma City Dentist Dr. Don Swearingen.