1. Check Their Training and Credentials

The easiest way to begin your search for sedation dentistry in Friendswood is to talk to other parents. Ask around to find dentists who offer sedation dentistry services in the area. As you begin to build your list, feel free to ask your friends questions about each practice.

For example, it can help to get a better sense of the atmosphere. Is the environment kid-friendly? A child-friendly environment could help put your anxious child at ease before their appointment.

Feel free to ask questions about the staff, too. A friendly, inviting staff could also put your child at ease.

Once you have a list of options for dentists, head online to gather research. 

First, it's essential to make sure each dentist on your list has the proper credentials. Most dental schools offer sedation training. Make sure each dentist on your list has completed post-graduate training in sedation dentistry.

Consider where each dentist went to school and how long ago they graduated, too.

Certain types of sedation dentistry can require advanced training and certification. Some of these include IV sedation and pediatric sedation. With that in mind, make sure the dentist has training and certification relevant to pediatrics.

If not, remove them from your list.

Determine if the dentist regularly attends continuing education classes, too. If they remain up-to-date about new techniques and developments, they're more likely to offer the best possible services. They're also more likely to find every means possible to ensure your child's safety.

Determine if the dentist offers oral conscious sedation as well. If they do, make sure they received training from the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS).

If you're looking into IV sedation, make sure the dentist is certified by the state as a specialist IV sedation dentist.

Otherwise, make sure each dentist on your list is licensed through the Texas dental board.

2. Look for Years of Sedation Experience

Once you find a dentist with the proper credentials, it's important to make sure they have years of relevant experience with patients. 

There are currently over 178,800 dental practices across the US. Some dentists are still getting their footing in the industry, though. Many are still applying their in-school training to patients under another dentist's supervision.

With that in mind, try to find a dentist with years of experience offering different types of sedation.  Consider how long they've treated children within that time, too. 

As with many professionals, dentists get better at offering specific services with hands-on experience. You can feel confident trusting your child with a more experienced dentist. 

Meanwhile, a dentist with experience treating children will have an easier time putting your child at ease. A dentist who has more experience with adults, on the other hand, might make your child even more uncomfortable.

4. Schedule a Consultation

As you begin narrowing down your options for dentists, consider scheduling consultations with at least three on your list. 

Before the appointment, look around the office. Is it clean and organized? Consider the staff as well.

Otherwise, make notes about the atmosphere. Would your child feel comfortable at that clinic?

Ask the dentist questions about their experience, expertise, and services. Outline your concerns for your child, too. Then, ask how they're able to help.

5. Consider How They Communicate

During the consultation appointment, pay attention to how the dentist speaks. If they interrupt you, they're likely not listening to your concerns.

If they try to push a specific service, they're not helping you make an informed decision for your child.

Instead, choose a dentist with stronger communication skills who is willing to work with you.

6. Read Reviews

Consider reading online reviews to learn more about the dentists on your shortlist. Look for any complaints about professionalism or timeliness.

For example, some parents might complain that they experienced long wait times at the office. Maybe they experienced billing issues or struggled to communicate with the dentist instead. 

Make sure the dentist doesn't have any disciplinary actions on their record, either.

7. Consider Pricing

Ask each dental office about their pricing for sedation services. Determine if any clinic accepts your insurance, too.

Shopping around will help you gauge the average price for sedation dentistry in Friendswood.

Find the Best Sedation Dentistry Dentist in Friendswood, TX Today

Don't take your child to the first sedation dentistry dentist in Friendswood, TX you call. Instead, use these tips to find the best dentist in town. With these tips, you can narrow down your options and make an informed choice.

The right dentist can set your child's oral health up for success for years to come. 

Want to schedule your child's appointment? We're here to help.

Contact us today to get started.