Any licensed dentist is able to see and treat children in their office. The difference is, pediatric dentists receive specialty training in all aspects of oral health care specifically for infants, children, and adolescents. The main goal of a pediatric dentist is to create a comfortable and safe environment for every patient and their family. If a child grows up with happy experiences at the dentist, they will be more likely to have better oral health as adults! In addition, a large part of the pediatric dental residency is dedicated to treating patients with special health care needs.
So how does someone become a pediatric dentist? After college, you attend dental school (3-4 years) and then complete a residency program in pediatric dentistry (2-3 years). This can be an additional 7 years after college! In addition, to become a board-certified pediatric dentist, you have to pass both the written and oral exam from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Pediatric dentists are the biggest advocate for the oral health of children - kids aren’t just little adults!
