If you love working with kids and want to make a lasting impact on their health, pediatric dentistry could be the perfect path for you. While general dentists can treat children, specializing in pediatrics gives you advanced skills to manage young patients’ unique dental and emotional needs. With extra training and the right skill set, you can create a positive, stress-free experience for kids and their families. Here’s what it takes to thrive as a pediatric dentist.

Extra Training for Pediatric Dentists

• Residency: A 2-3 year residency after dental school provides specialized training.
• Board Certification: Optional but highly respected, certification from the American Board of Pediatric Dentists establishes expertise.
• Advanced Treatment Capabilities: Pediatric dentists can legally perform sedation and treat complex cases that general dentists cannot.

Essential Skills

Technical Skills

Anxiety Management

• Use behavioral strategies and sedation techniques to keep children calm.
• Support anxious parents to ease their child’s fears.
  
  

Problem-Solving & Adaptability

• Handle unpredictable situations with young patients.
• Modify treatment plans as needed, especially for kids with special healthcare needs.
  
  

Manual Dexterity

• Work with precision in small mouths with thin enamel.
• Perform treatments efficiently before young patients lose patience.

Soft Skills

Patience & Compassion

• Listen to children’s concerns and build trust.
• Give them time to feel comfortable before treatment.
  
  

Superior Chairside Manner

• Balance playfulness with a calming presence to keep kids engaged and at ease.
  
  

Commitment to Learning

• Stay updated on new pediatric dental techniques and emerging research.
  
  

Pediatric dentistry is a gratifying career that blends technical skills with the ability to make a lasting impact on children’s health and well-being. As a pediatric dentist, you won’t just be treating teeth—you’ll be shaping a child’s lifelong attitude toward dental care. If you’re passionate about providing exceptional care in a field that is always in demand, now is the time to take the next step.

At Community Dental Partners, we support new pediatric dentists in developing their expertise and confidence. Our team is dedicated to helping you build a successful, fulfilling career. Contact a CDP Hiring Manager to learn how you can begin your journey in pediatric dentistry!