Choosing the same family dentist for every member in a household has numerous benefits. These practitioners are trained in providing dental care to most age groups and understand the varying oral and dental health needs at all life stages. This differs from general dentistry, in which practitioners generally focus on a particular age group.
Benefits of a family dentist
There are a number of good reasons to seek the services of a family dentist for every person in a family, from children on up to the elderly. These practitioners can offer convenience and consistency over the years of providing dental care for each family member.
Scheduling convenience
When there is one family dentist providing care for all members of the family, it can be much easier to schedule appointments. Rather than worrying about coordinating times based on the location of multiple offices, visits can be scheduled based on what is convenient for the entire family.
Consistent care
Having a single dentist for all members of the family is another convenience. When every person goes to the same family dentist, there is consistency in care as well. The practitioner develops a relationship with everyone. For children, this can help ease the fears that often surround a visit to the dentist.
Oral hygiene education through all life stages
Part of the job of a family dentist is to educate patients on how to care for their teeth, gums, and oral health. The fact that the dentist provides for all family members can increase the trust between practitioner and patient as each new stage of life is reached, along with the associated needs.
Preventative measures maintained
Consistency in dental visits improves the ability to address potential issues before they develop. The ease of scheduling appointments increases the likelihood that family members maintain regular visits. In addition, having a family dentist reduces the potential for a disruption in services as an individual ages because there is no need to search for another practitioner.
Customized treatment for everyone
A family dentist performs standard treatments across all ages. When issues arise, such as overcrowding or misalignment, the practitioner can assist in developing a customized treatment plan that considers individual needs and circumstances.
Services provided by a family dentist
A family dentist treats individuals of any age. These practitioners understand the process of tooth development in children and the aging process in the elderly. Understanding the emotional reluctance for some patients, children in particular, is important for providing good overall care as well as helping individuals to develop a positive association with going to the dentist. Family dentists focus on providing oral and dental hygiene and care, generally offering the following services:
- Dental cleanings
- Fluoride treatments
- Gum disease treatment and therapy
- Sealants
- Fillings
Conclusion
A family dentist offers convenient and consistent oral and dental care for the entire family. As children grow and adults age, everyone going to the same dentist can make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and a healthy smile.
Request an appointment or call Smiles by Design, PC at 256-660-3233 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
Recent Posts
Few people are thrilled at the thought of sitting in their dentist's chair. While dental anxiety is a real problem for many people, even those who do not experience that level of discomfort still have occasional misgivings or even fears. Finding a family dentist that you are comfortable with can help you get through those…
There are numerous reasons to see a family dentist. This dental professional provides a variety of services that prevent and treat dental issues. If problems with the gums or teeth go untreated, they can quickly lead to bigger issues that can even affect the entire body. Visiting a dentist when symptoms first appear is always…
Whether an individual has simply not been to the family dentist in a few years or switched to a new provider, a first visit can be overwhelming and possibly nerve-wracking. Knowing what to expect during the first visit and how to prepare can help ease individuals’ concerns and ensure the appointment goes as smoothly as…