Dear Parents, welcome to our office. 
 
I have put together a short overview of my practice philosophy and office policy.  I hope this helps you understand my commitment to treating your child.  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.  
 
 
Parents in operatories
As a parent, I understand how important it is to be involved in your child's healthcare decisions and treatment.  I have an open practice policy where parents can come to the treatment operatory in all but very limited circumstances.  A parent in the operatory allows me as your child's dentist to discuss issues I see with your child's oral hygiene, dental health and development.  This is also a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and see exactly what treatment is being given to your child.  Due to the nature of some treatment situations, you may want to step out if it will be difficult to see.  Also, I ask that siblings NOT be present during delivery of anesthesia (shots).  I will ask you to take the sibling out and return as soon as complete anesthesia has been accomplished.
 
Behavior Management
As a pediatric dentist, I have spent two extra years of study and training in order to be a specialist in children's dentistry.  Pediatric dentists are trained in various behavior management techniques to make your child's visit to the dentist as comfortable and as pleasant as possible.  There are many pediatric dentists who do not allow parents in the operatory because they feel children behave better when the parents are not there.  Again, as a parent myself, I can understand this logic.  There are situations where children would be better served with their parents NOT being present. In my opinion, this is for older children who are school age, who might act better when their parents are not present.  This is a decision for both the parent and child to make.  If a child goes to school by them self I believe they will have the self-confidence and trust to come back for treatment and know that they will not be hurt.  If, due to the amount of treatment, age or behavior, treatment is not possible using normal behavior management techniques, I will discuss with you various alternatives for completing treatment.  My number one priority is having your child's treatment completed the best possible way so that they will have proper dental care without any lasting negative experiences.