Pediatric Dentistry Specialist

What is pediatric dentistry?

A pediatric dentist has child-specific training that goes above and beyond general dentistry training to provide the comprehensive dental care that all children, from preschoolers to teenagers, need.

While a child's dentistry concerns— from losing their first teeth to orthodontics — are significantly different from an adult's, it's a provider's ability to support a child's psychological and behavioral needs that mark the greatest difference between pediatric dentistry and any other type.

Once a pediatric dentist finishes dental school, they complete an additional two to three years of specialized pediatric training. Here they cover child-specific dental and care needs, including a range of ways to speak and behave so that all children, whatever their needs, feel secure and comfortable.

Dr. Kern welcomes patients aged four and up. The team does all they can to give their young patients a wonderful experience at every visit.

What services does pediatric dentistry include?

The most important stages of tooth development occur during childhood. Dr. Kern and his team offer the full range of dental services children might need while growing up, including:

• Preventive dental care
• Oral health exams
• Gum disease management
• Habit counseling (pacifier and thumb sucking)
• Cavity repair
• Tooth extraction
• Orthodontic assessments
• Treatment for dental injuries

The team also diagnoses and treats dental issues associated with other diseases and health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, and congenital heart defects.

Why choose a pediatric dentist?

Children often feel frightened when visiting the dentist, especially when they don't know what to expect. A pediatric dentist provides a unique, kid-friendly experience from the moment the child enters the practice.

Patient rapport

Every child has a unique personality all their own. While many dentists are great with children generally, only a pediatric dental team has the specific training that allows them to make friends, build relationships, and foster trust with all children, no matter how chatty, anxious, or shy. 

Tools and equipment

Young children are smaller than teenagers and adults, and regular-sized dental tools can be too big to fit in their mouths. A pediatric dentist uses child-sized dental tools and equipment for more effective, comfortable treatment.

Kyle D. Kern, DMD, is a family dental practice where the team has specialized pediatric training. They strive to create a calm and welcoming atmosphere so that every child feels at home. Call today to schedule your child's next visit or make an appointment through this website.