How to Choose a Pediatric Dentist in Charlotte

A good dentist can make the difference between a child who dreads checkups and one who hops up into the big chair. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) says a child should see a dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than the first birthday, so this is a choice many families make before their baby can even say "teeth." Here is what I would look for. This guide is general information, not dental or medical advice.

Pediatric dentist or family dentist?

A pediatric dentist has two to three years of specialty training after dental school, focused only on children, according to the AAPD. Many general dentists see kids too. A pediatric office is often a great fit for babies, toddlers, nervous kids and children with special health needs.

Questions to ask before your first visit

• How do you help nervous or young children? Ask how they explain each step before they do it, and how they handle a child who is scared or will not open up.
• Can I stay with my child during the visit? Policies differ from office to office, so ask up front and pick the one that matches your comfort level.
• Which insurance plans do you take, including Medicaid? Ask for a written estimate before any treatment beyond a cleaning and exam.
• What happens if my child has a dental emergency? Find out who answers after hours and on weekends, and where they send you.
• How do you care for children with special needs? If your child has sensory, medical or developmental needs, ask what accommodations they make and whether quieter appointment times are available.
• When do you use sedation, and how is my child monitored? Ask how they decide, what the options are and what training the team has. You should never feel rushed into it.
• How often will you want to see my child? The AAPD generally recommends a checkup every six months, and your dentist may suggest a different schedule based on your child's needs.
• Do you see kids through the teen years, and do you offer orthodontics? Some offices have an orthodontist on site, and others refer out.
• Do your hours work for school and work schedules? Location, early or late appointments and how far out they book all matter when you have more than one child.

Red flags

• You feel pressured to approve a lot of treatment right away without a clear explanation.
• Your questions are brushed off, or no one will give you costs in writing.
• You are not allowed to see where your child will be treated.
• Your child comes out of every visit more scared than when they went in.

How to check a dentist's license

The North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners offers a free license verification search at ncdentalboard.org. Type in the dentist's last name or license number to confirm the license is active. For an office in Fort Mill, Tega Cay or Rock Hill, use the Licensee Lookup from the South Carolina Board of Dentistry at llr.sc.gov. It only takes a minute and gives you peace of mind.

Local pediatric dentists in the Kids' Directory

Show me ones near: EverywhereConcord & CabarrusGaston CountyMonroe & Indian TrailIndian LandEast CharlotteNorth CharlotteWest CharlotteSouth CharlotteLake NormanYork County SCSeveral locations

These offices advertise with me in the Kids' Directory. Use the questions above when you call, and please tell them you found them in the Kids' Directory!

Where this comes from

• American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry - Parent FAQ (opens in a new tab)
• NC State Board of Dental Examiners - License Verification (opens in a new tab)
• SC Board of Dentistry (LLR) (opens in a new tab)

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