Not sure whether to look for a family dentist or general dentist in your area? The difference between the two can be confusing, especially if you are looking for a new dentist. There is a significant overlap between what the two kinds of dentists do, but most often their approach is a bit different.
The Differences
Pediatric Dentistry and Training
The biggest difference between a general dentist and a family dentist is that often a family dentist loves to see kids and has training in or is familiar with pediatric dentistry. Family dentistry offices see people of all ages, often starting at the child’s first dental appointment. Your kids can get to know the dentist and maintain a relationship with them.
General dentistry often only sees adults and focuses on treatments that benefit adults only, instead of the whole family. While their offerings are still comprehensive, they may not have as many resources to treat younger patients, such as dental sealants or toys in the waiting area.
Lake Forest Smiles in Lake Forest, Illinois, is a family dentist that has comprehensive treatments for every age, from newborns to the elderly. If you need a family dentist near you, call us today.
The Office’s Atmosphere
A dental office may choose to say they are a family practice or general dentistry practice because they want to invite families to come in versus just parents or individuals. Sometimes it has very little to do with a difference in their treatments versus who and what the dentist prefers to treat.
You may see the same treatments offered by a general dentist and a family dentist, but their offices will be very different. Family dentists tend to be “baby-proofed” for younger children who may be curious, and some will even have toys for the children.
Scheduling Families vs. Individuals
Family dentists are used to scheduling families in one day or close together, to make your visit more convenient for everyone. Some dentists can even see multiple family members at the same time!
A general dentist does not focus on seeing families together, so scheduling multiple visits in the same time frame can be more complicated, but not impossible.
The Similarities
Comprehensive Options
Both general dentistry and family dentistry seek to be comprehensive. Our doctors at Lake Forest Dentistry offer many kinds of cosmetic treatments that can enhance an adult smile, restorative treatments that can fix an aging or damaged smile, and also regular cleanings and exams.
General dentistry offers cosmetic treatments, restorative treatments, and regular cleanings and exams too, so you can get many treatments with the same dentist you have grown to trust.
Training and Schooling
Whether you go to a family dentist or a general dentist, your dentist will be a DDS or DMD. They will have the same level of dental training from school. After they receive their medical degree, each dentist will receive special training in the things they want to focus on. You can always check a dentist’s about page to see what further training they have completed.
Looking for a dentist who has become part of an organization that specializes in general dentistry or cosmetic dentistry is a good indicator of what the dentist loves to do and wants to offer.
If you are curious about the dental office’s offerings and if they take in families, most offices are happy to get a phone call with questions about that kind of stuff!
A Dentist for the Whole Family in Lake Forest, Illinois
Dr. Schmidt, Dr. Hughes, and Dr. Campbell are here for your family and general dentistry needs in Illinois. We cover everything from newborn tongue-ties to cosmetic procedures. If you are looking to enhance your smile and care for your kid’s teeth, you can get it all right here. Contact us today!