Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Dentistry

It is vital to locate a dentist that understands the challenges involved with transitioning from pediatric to adult dentistry. At Luna Pediatric Dentistry, our staff sets the foundation for a successful switch from a pediatric to adult dentist. Discussing topics such as good dental hygiene habits and necessary dietary changes makes the transition go smoothly.

When to Switch from Pediatric Dentist

You should begin transitioning dental care for your child after their permanent teeth begin to come in. There are a number of factors involved that should be considered, including their comfort level. However, dental milestones for teens typically state they should switch somewhere between the ages of 12 and 18.

Signs that indicate a child’s readiness to transition to an adult dentist can include:

• Finishing orthodontic treatments
• Wisdom teeth concerns
• Bleeding gums

Dental Care for Adolescents

There are several differences between pediatric and adult dental care. For example, pediatric dentists tend to focus on educating their patients. Additionally, they provide behavioral support and address child-specific issues. They’ll take care of things such as tongue thrusting, pacifier use and thumb sucking. Plus, they’ll use anxiety management to ensure your child feels as comfortable as possible. At the same time, they provide early orthodontic evaluations, along with oral exams and cleanings.

General dentists focus on preventative services, restorative services, cosmetic procedures and overall health concerns. They still educate their patients, but they don’t spend much time talking about the basics of dental care for teens. Instead, they teach patients about things such as the link between untreated oral infections and cardiovascular disease.

Preparing for Teen Dental Health

Transitioning from pediatric to adult dentistry requires an initial consultation. During which, you should make sure your teen’s dental records have been transferred. That way, the adult dentist can easily see your teen’s complete dental history. This goes a long way toward maintaining trust because their new dentist won’t have to ask lots of questions. Furthermore, it’s critical for your teen to feel comfortable as they transition.

Is their new dentist open to answering questions and keeping a good rapport? Are they polite and friendly? Can they answer things in a way that doesn’t feel condescending? All of these factors are important to ensure your teen has a good dentist-patient relationship with them.

Dental Care Tips for Teens

Teenagers have a lot to deal with, ranging from increased school pressure to the eruption of their wisdom teeth. Therefore, getting them in with the right dentist is vital. Your teen should feel totally comfortable discussing these topics and more such as:

• Wisdom Teeth – Wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. This is sometimes accompanied by pain, swollen gums, headaches, etc. Their dentist can advise them on pain-relieving steps to take. They’ll also let them know if they need their wisdom teeth removed.
• Orthodontic Follow-Ups – If your teen has braces, they’ll need regular follow-ups to ensure everything is working correctly. This is especially important in the beginning, when they’ll need to visit their dentist every four to six weeks.
• Retainer Use – Once their braces are gone, they’ll most likely move on to using a retainer. This begins with sessions every few months, but it eventually tapers off to once or twice a year.
• Oral Hygiene – Kids usually share their dental responsibilities with their parents. However, once they’re teenagers, it’s time for them to take on increased responsibility for their oral hygiene. This includes letting their dentist know if they experience pain or think they might have a cavity.

Building a Teen’s Independence in Dental Care

Encouraging your teen to take charge of their dental hygiene is of the upmost importance. After all, setting up good habits today will help ensure that their teeth will last throughout their entire life. Also, teens tend to be standoffish with their parents, and you don’t want something else to argue about. Fortunately, there are ways for you to monitor their oral health without being confrontational.

• Ask About Pain – Ask them if they experience any pain when they brush their teeth or when they chew food. Consider bringing this topic up by talking about your tooth pain. That way, they won’t feel ambushed.
• Watch Them Brush Their Teeth – Observe how well they brush their teeth from time to time. Rather than letting them know what you’re doing, though, come up with another reason to be in the bathroom. Perhaps you could be talking to them about school and happen to wander into the room, for instance.
• Be a Good Example – The best way to reach your teen is by setting a good example. Therefore, don’t hide in the bathroom when you brush your teeth. Instead, leave the door open so they can see what you’re doing.
• Discuss Any Oral Hygiene Concerns – If you have a specific concern about their oral hygiene, be sure to bring it up. However, be sure to stop yourself from seeming overly concerned or like you’re berating them. Instead, consider bringing up your concern by relating it to a dental experience you had when you were a teenager.

Finding Adult Dental Care Richmond Texas

There are several things you should look for when it’s time to find an adult dentist for your teenager. Here are a few of the most critical things:

• Credentials – The first thing to look for is a dentist who is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA). Also, verify that they’re properly licensed.
• Communication Skills – Find a dentist who communicates easily. They need to speak as clearly and confidently with your teen and yourself.
• Preventative Care – Having a focus on preventative care is an absolute must. This includes regular cleanings and checkups. Plus, they should offer dental sealants, fluoride applications, etc.
• Positive Reviews – Read their online reviews to check for how well they work with teenagers.
• Flexible Scheduling – Finding a dentist who offers flexible scheduling will make your life much easier. Focus on locating one who offers evening hours at least once or twice a week.
• Experience Treating Teens – Finally, what is their experience level at treating transitioning teenagers? If they don’t typically treat teens, you’ll probably want to select someone else.

Luna Pediatric Dentistry is proud to tune our care to the needs of your child. When it’s time to help them transition, we offer referrals to other local dentists. We understand how intimidating it can be to make the switch, so we’re there every step of the way!

Adolescent Dental Care and Regular Checkups

Consistent dental visits during adolescence and adulthood are the best way to keep a smile bright. Not only can this help avoid future dental issues but it can also prevent tooth loss and periodontal disease. Other perks include better overall oral hygiene and avoiding halitosis.

Preventative measures include:

• Twice daily tooth brushing
• Having a good diet
• Flossing daily
• Steering clear of sugary drinks
• Fluoride toothpaste
• Stop smoking
• Regular dental visits

FAQs

Will my child’s new dentist have access to their dental history?

Yes, as long as you request a transfer and sign a release form. You might be charged a fee for this service. Be sure to wait long enough for the transfer to go through.

What if my child has dental anxiety about a new dentist?

Openly talk about their concerns with them. Be sure to let their new dentist know about their anxiety, along with any previous traumatic dental experiences. Ask if you can have a brief session to allow your teen to meet their new dentist.

Can pediatric dentists treat adults?

Yes, but the environment isn’t ideal for adults. Pediatric dentists have the same skills as adult dentists. However, they typically choose an office that is set up specifically for kids.

Pediatric Dentist Richmond TX

Luna Pediatric Dentistry helps children transition from pediatric to adult dentistry. Our team can make your teenager feel more comfortable with the idea of switching.

Schedule your transitional consultation today!