Do Pediatric Dentists Take Adults Patients?

Pediatric dentists are able to take on adult patients, and many patients continue to see their childhood dentist well into adulthood. While it may seem like an adult needs a general dentist, a pediatric dentist has the same skills but specializes in younger patients.

Dentists for adults might be easier to find than your typical pediatric dentist that will take adult patients. While it is a common practice for dentists to continue seeing their former adolescent patients, it is not always as common for a pediatric dentist to take a new adult patient. 

There are, however, many dental practices out there that have a dentist for both children and adults. This is typically a family dentist, one who will see the entire family. Seeing a family dentist might be easier than getting an appointment with a pediatric dentist that accepts adult patients. 

Seeing a pediatric dentist can have its roadblocks

Pediatric dentistry is a subspecialty of dentistry. With that in mind, there might be fewer pediatric dentists in your area than there are general dentists. That is one of the reasons a pediatric dentist may not accept an adult as a new patient: Because they are at capacity for their younger patients. 

This does not always mean that a pediatric dentist won’t see an adult. It does mean that it might be more difficult to get an appointment with one. This is why family dentists are a good alternative. 

Family dentists vs. pediatric dentists

While a pediatric dentist mainly sees children, a family dentist is a general dentist that is willing to see both children and adults. This is convenient for all patients, and can make it easier for families to have their dental needs met in a single visit.

Special cases

While pediatric dentists won’t always see an adult patient, they have been known to make special cases. If the patient is in need of care from a pediatric dentist specifically, they will be seen by a pediatric dentist for an assessment. 

Referred out

Most pediatric dentists unable to take on new adult patients will refer the patient to another dentist. This is normally a dentist they have close ties to and is more than likely the same person they refer their older former patients to as well. This is a benefit to all potential and current patients.

Many patients might stay with their pediatric dentist into their early to mid-twenties. It mainly depends on your needs and whether or not the dentist can continue to see an adult patient. Luckily, you won’t be on your own. As mentioned earlier, your dentist will refer you to a new network of dentists that are more apt to take care of your needs. 

Finding the right dentist for you

If you are at a point where you need to find a dentist but aren’t sure where to start, it is always best to contact your previous pediatric dentist for more details. They may have resources to help you find the right dentist for your needs. 

Since your pediatric dentist knows your oral health journey well, they might recommend different dentists for different occasions. This is a benefit to you and your future dentist. 

Addressing any questions or concerns

While it might seem like some patients are too old for a pediatric dentist, there is the only way to know for sure, and that is by asking your local pediatric dentist. If you still have questions about pediatric dentists and the needs of an adult patient, feel free to contact us at 702-852-1444 or schedule an appointment with us today.