Pediatric Dentistry of Columbia

(410) 740-0144
10632 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 337
Columbia, MD 21044

Growing happy, healthy smiles for infants, children, and adolescents

Pediatric Dentistry of Columbia

Our Specialty

What is a Pediatric Dental Specialist?

Pediatric dentistry is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). The specialty of pediatric dentistry requires the completion of a four-year dental school program, as well as an additional two- to three-year residency program. Through advanced training, pediatric dentists are able to provide expert oral care to their young patients.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), “Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. They provide both primary and specialized oral health care for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health care needs."

As a pediatric dental office, we specialize in the distinctive oral health care needs of infants, children, and adolescents. Therefore, along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), our office promotes your child’s first dental visit by one year of age or when the first tooth erupts. This initial examination is an integral part of establishing a “dental home” and is the first step to a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles, with a focus on prevention of dental disease.

What is the difference between a Certified Pediatric Dentist and a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist (Diplomate)?

A Certified Pediatric Dentist completes two to three years of additional training after dental school to be a specialist in pediatrics. After completing these two to three years of training, which involves the treatment of infants, children, adolescents, and those with special needs, a dentist receives a certification in pediatric dentistry.

A Board Certified Pediatric Dentist (Diplomate) is a distinction that requires a Certified Pediatric Dentist to have additional accreditation and examinations. First, one must pass an all-day written exam. After this, the candidate is eligible to sit for a final oral exam. During this two-hour oral exam, actual pediatric dental cases are presented to the candidate while a panel of Board Certified Pediatric Dentists critically evaluate the candidates' responses.

This extra certification of becoming a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry is a rare distinction among pediatric dentists and is designed to provide assurance to the patients that their pediatric dentist has successfully completed the highest level of accredited training in their field.

Only half of all certified pediatric dentists achieve this status nationwide. Dr. Doshi is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist (Diplomate). Please visit the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry’s (ABPD) website for more information.