Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry dealing with infants, children, adolescence and special need patients. Pediatric dentists typically require an extra two to three years of post-doctoral training after attaining their dental degree. Pediatric dentistry emphasizes the establishment of trust and confidence in children with their dentists. Consequently, one of the main components of pediatric training is child psychology. This manifests itself in special office designs, different communication styles and an emphasis on teaching preventative dental habits to children in an effort to make dental visits enjoyable. WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A PEDIATRIC DENTIST? It is recommended by the Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry that the first dental visit should occur approximately six months after your child's first tooth erupts and no later than age one. GENERAL DENTIST VS. PEDIATRIC DENTIST: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? Pediatric dentists can offer the specialized focus on your child that general dentists may not be prepared or inclined to offer. Unlike a general dentist, a pediatric dentist has two to three years of additional training. This program of study and hands-on experience emphasizes child psychology, growth and development. Pediatric dentists know how to examine and treat children - not always the most cooperative of subjects - in ways that make them comfortable and safe. The pediatric dental office is child-centric. It is specially designed, arranged, decorated with children in mind. WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE FIRST DENTAL VISIT? After a dental examination, the pediatric dentist may present information on:
-Your child's cavity risk assessment
-Information about early childhood cavities
-Information on preventative home care techniques: including information on brushing, diet counseling and fluoride use
-Information about preventing mouth and teeth injuries
-Information on growth and development
Pediatric Dentists promote the dental health of children as well as serve as an educational resource for parents. BIOGRAPHY
Dr. Shadfar worked for several years in New Jersey but ultimately decided to move back to Canada. You may have seen him working in Mission for the past while, and now has opened his brand new office in North Vancouver, BC.Dr. Shadfar’s focus is on pediatric/adolescent growth and development, disease causality and prevention, child psychology and management, and different Pediatric restorative techniques. Dr. Shadfar also specializes in the care of special needs patients; our office is handicap accessible with wide hallways and large bathrooms. Dr. Shadfar is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (F.R.C.D.C.) and a Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry in BC (F.C.D.S. (B.C.)) and a member of the College of Dental Surgeons. He decided to endeavor even further and became a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
