Having a family can mean playing keep-up with a pretty hectic schedule. From getting kids to school and activities to getting to work on time and taking care of parents or other extended family members, it’s a lot to keep track of. Having the right family dentist in Tampa, FL, can help streamline your dental care and keep your oral health on track. By being able to schedule appointments together, you can help everyone in your family keep their teeth and gums healthy with less stress.
What Makes a Good Family Dentist in Tampa, FL?
Finding the right dentist for your family is as crucial as finding the right doctor. Some dentists may offer to treat children, teens, and elders. But if they aren’t a specific family dentist, they may not offer the best dental care. When it comes to your family, you want to make sure everyone is taken care of. Here are some things to consider when choosing a family dentist.
Experience With Different Age Groups
As we age, we experience different dental conditions. Toddlers and children, for example, have to worry about their baby teeth and making sure their adult teeth grow in properly. Pre-teens and teens are at a crucial age where orthodontic treatment is most effective. And elderly patients are at a greater risk of losing their teeth or suffering fractures.
While a general dentist may be able to care for most issues, having a family dentist is usually better. A dentist who has training and experience in dealing with patients of all age groups will generally be better equipped to handle age-specific problems.
Emergency Availability
Dental emergencies can be scary and frustrating, especially when it’s happening to your loved one. That’s why it’s important that you understand your dentist’s emergency appointment protocols. Many family dentists set aside specific appointment times where they can see emergencies. Others may have a list of contacts for emergency dental offices or hospitals. Getting seen as soon as possible after an accident can make all the difference in the speed and success of treatment.
It’s also important to know what the protocol is for emergencies that happen outside of office hours. Many dental offices can provide an emergency number to call and speak with a dentist or team member when the office is closed. If your dentist doesn’t have an option for off-hours care or contact, you should look for an emergency care facility nearby for any immediate concerns.
Understanding and Care
Many people suffer from dental anxiety, and it’s more common for children to be affected by a fear of the dentist. It’s important that your dentist understands and is respectful of their anxieties. A good family dentist can offer extended appointment times for anyone who suffers from dental anxiety. This can help provide comfort and compassion when seeking treatment.
If your family needs a new dentist, Dr. Rebecca E. Benedict is here to help. Call our office at 813-733-6981 to schedule your family’s new patient appointments and learn more about our services.