Is a Private Children’s Dentist Worth the Extra Cost?

Kids Dental at Marsh House
18, Oct 2023

When it comes to giving your children the best start in life, having excellent dental health is one of the most important factors to focus on. Whilst public dental clinics may seem like a cost-effective choice, many parents across the UK are starting to realise the benefits of a private children’s dentist, but does the extra cost truly mean better care? From specialised care to patient-focused treatments, in this article we’ll explore the advantages of opting for a private children’s dentist, so read on to explore the exceptional care offered by these practices.

Private Children’s Dentist

Good dental care for children is a crucial aspect of overall health to focus on, as it sets the foundation for their oral health throughout their lives. It is recommended that children start seeing a dentist as early as their first tooth emerges, or by the age of one, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings for young children can help prevent a range of early life dental issues, including cavities, gum disease, and orthodontic problems.

Whilst public dental clinics are the most common option, they often have long waiting times, limited availability, and may not provide the specialised care that children require. Private children’s dentists, on the other hand, are specifically trained to cater to the unique needs of young patients and their oral health requirements. These specialist dental practices have extensive experience and knowledge in paediatric dentistry, enabling them to provide the best possible dental care for children with minimally invasive dental treatments and patient-focused checkups. The dental teams understand the importance of early intervention and preventative measures, ensuring that any potential dental issues are addressed quickly, particularly as the waiting times are much shorter than they would be for NHS dental clinics.

By choosing a private children’s dentist, you are prioritising your child’s oral health and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles, so read on to explore the benefits of opting for privatised oral health care for your children.

Specialised Care

From preventive care such as dental cleanings and sealants to issues such as tooth decay and thumb-sucking, these dentists are equipped to handle any dental issue your child may face. Many other dentists offer treatments to both adults and children, whereas the dentists practising in a private practice are specialists in children’s dentistry, meaning that they understand the unique dental needs of children and tailor their treatments accordingly.

Private children’s dentists specialise in catering specifically to children’s dental needs and often invest in the latest dental technology and resources to provide a wide range of treatments to their young patients. With their in-depth knowledge of common dental issues and the signs to look out for, they are experts at not only communicating with young children about their oral health, but also guiding them through the treatment process with a calming, positive approach to the procedure. Private paediatric dentists also excel in preventive care, educating both patients and parents on the importance of developing healthy oral care routines from an early age and offering advice and guidance on how to do this.

If any issues do arise in your child’s oral health, then choosing a private dentist is the best way to reduce the time spent waiting for consultations or treatments. Long waiting lists are a frustrating part of caring for your child’s oral health, and become incredibly inconvenient when your child needs immediate dental attention or is experiencing pain or discomfort. Private dentists prioritise their patients, ensuring that appointments are scheduled quickly and that patients who need to be seen quickly are not kept waiting. Many private dentists also offer extended opening hours and weekend appointments, saving you time with regular appointments and ensuring that your child receives timely and efficient dental care when they need it, without disruption to their day-to-day life. Overall, choosing a private dentist for your child’s oral health guarantees that your child is receiving the best possible care tailored to their specific needs and sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

Child-Centred Environment

A child’s first experience with the dentist can shape their perception of dental care for the rest of their lives, so if you are trying to develop a positive perception of dentists for your child, or your little one has complex dental needs that require frequent visits to a practice, then opting for a private dental practice is the best option. Private dentists for children are aware of the apprehension young children may have around visiting a dentist, and their practices are designed to alleviate these concerns. The space and the staff go the extra mile to create a child-centred environment that is engaging, comforting, and familiar to make attending the dentist an enjoyable experience.

Private dental clinics for children often have waiting rooms that are decorated with bright colours, toys, and books, providing a welcoming and fun space for children to relax before their appointment. The dental staff at private children’s dentists are also trained to communicate effectively with children by using age-appropriate language and simple explanations to explain procedures in a way that children can understand. This helps alleviate anxiety and allows children to feel more comfortable and respected during their dental visits, as well making sure that they have a clear understanding of the treatment they will be receiving.

The dentists, hygienists, and reception staff at private practices are all trained to be as patient and gentle as possible and to take the time to build trust with the child before proceeding with any treatment. This child-centred approach ensures that children have a positive experience and fosters a positive association with dental care, making it more likely that their patients will maintain good oral hygiene and continue to visit the dentist regularly.

Long-Term Oral Health

While the cost of private dental care for children may be higher compared to public clinics, the added benefits can have a lasting impact on your child’s dental well-being. By choosing a private children’s dentist, you are ensuring that your child receives specialised care from professionals who understand their unique needs, which results in better oral health and a reduced risk of dental issues as their teeth and jaw develop and grow.

Investing in private children’s dentistry also means investing in your child’s long-term oral health habits and the foundation laid by a private children’s dentist can have a lasting impact on your child’s dental well-being for years to come. By creating a positive association with dental care from an early age, children are more likely to develop good oral hygiene habits and continue to prioritise their dental health well past adolescence and into adulthood.

Making the Best Decision for Your Child’s Dental Health

When it comes to your child’s dental health, the benefits of opting for a private children’s dentist are undeniable. From specialised care to child-centred environments, these private dentists go the extra mile to ensure that your child receives the best possible dental care.

If you are considering making this investment in your child’s long-term oral health and well-being, then contact our team today to book your child an appointment at our welcoming and child-friendly dental clinic.