For those tired of making numerous trips to different offices for dental care for the whole family, it may be time to make the switch to a family dentist. Unlike general dentistry where services are focused on a particular age group, family dentistry provides oral care for people of different age ranges in a family.
For those needing an oral health provider who can deal with the different concerns across family members, there are five key benefits for choosing a family dentistry practice.
With all of the busy schedules between work, school, or extracurricular activities, shuttling family members around town to different dentists can be chaotic and stressful. Opting for family dentistry simplifies everything. There is the convenience of scheduling all of the family members at one time for their routine cleanings. Seeing the same dentist throughout childhood and into adulthood also simplifies the patient/provider relationship and provides continuity of care.
As there are many ages to accommodate in family dentistry, many providers have expanded service options. Depending on the provider, older patients may learn options for tooth loss while teenagers may be evaluated for orthodontic needs. Tooth whitening services may be available, as well as other cosmetic options. If it is important that each member has access to quality services relevant to common age concerns, a family dentist often addresses this through a wide range in areas of expertise.
Though dental hygiene practices are mostly the same for all ages, there are transitionary stages to oral health and tooth development. For families with multiple children, moving from a dentist who focuses on younger kids to one who works with teenagers numerous times can create a slight headache with records, imaging, and patient files. It is easier to have a strong relationship cultivated with one dentist who can oversee the various areas of oral health as family members age. The chart and dental history stay in one place, reducing the chances for information or concerns to fall through the cracks.
It can be challenging to encourage children and teenagers to follow good hygiene practices, but parents have the opportunity to set a good example when everyone goes to the dentist together. Younger children learn there is nothing to fear when visiting the dentist, especially when they see their parents being treated by the same provider. This establishes oral hygiene as a priority, and there is a greater likelihood that children will develop more consistent dental care habits when those habits have been modeled by a parent.
Visiting the same dental office can streamline insurance claims and bill payment. Keeping track of which provider may be in-network or which services are covered across several different providers can be frustrating. When everyone visits the same location, there is less confusion when it comes to the financial aspect of dental care.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Family Dentist in Coconut Grove, FL
Scheduling appointments with a family dentist can make prioritizing dental care easier. Each age group can receive the appropriate services, making oral hygiene a family affair.
Request an appointment or call Smile at Coconut Grove at 305-423-4661 for an appointment in our Coconut Grove office.
Taking young children to the family dentist can be overwhelming at times, especially because they are more prone to dental fear and anxiety. However, dental care is essential for children, just as it is for adults, and should start at a very young age. The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist as…
An abscessed tooth can occur for a variety of reasons, and most require prompt treatment from a family dentist. It is important to understand what an abscessed tooth is, what the early symptoms are and how a family dentist might treat an abscessed tooth to be able to recognize the concern when it develops and…
A family dentist plays a key role in the oral health of patients both young and old. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately one in five children between the ages of 5 and 11 have untreated cavities. There is more access to dental care than ever before, but many parents struggle with establishing…
Dental bridge placement will need two visits. The patient will go through a short process that will not be invasive at all. The result will improve the patient’s dental and general health. Knowing the placement process for this restoration can help prepare you for your next visit. Here is the placement process for a dental…
Bad breath can feel uncomfortable and embarrassing, even more so when it does not seem to go away. If you are struggling with chronic bad breath, a general dentist can help. Many treatment options are available, some of which take place at home. In this article, we will explore the common causes of bad breath…