As your child grows up, making sure he or she has the best dental care is critical. According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 15.6% of children from age 6 to 19 have untreated dental cavities. To prevent things like cavities and harmful tooth and gum problems, it’s important to make sure you find the best pediatric dentist for your family in your area.

Here are the top things every parent should look for when choosing a pediatric dentist for his or her family:

1. The proper training: Did you know that in order to be a qualified pediatric dentist, the dentist must complete two extra years of residency training for working with babies, children, teens and children with special needs and disabilities? Before taking your family to a pediatric or family dentist, be sure he or she has completed this training.

2. Ability to work with children: Many kids are afraid of going to the dentist — so you want to make sure your pediatric dentist knows how to calm their nerves and relate to them while performing a dental check-up or procedure. The best dentists are educational and informative about dental hygiene while also helping children enjoy the dentist.

3. A kid-friendly office: As stated before, a lot of kids list the dentist’s office as one of their worst fears — so taking them to a pediatric dentist’s office that features kid-friendly decorations, toys and other activities in the waiting room is a great way to alleviate their anxiety. The office should also be neat and clean, and give off a hygienic, sanitary appearance.

With the right pediatric dentist, a trip to the dentist’s office can turn into a positive experience for your children. By making sure you choose the best dentist, you’ll also be choosing the best for your family. Research more here.