Pediatric Dentist Policies

The pediatric dentist we take my 8 year old brother to has the same policy. He had gone to a dentist that allowed mom back with him until he was 4.5 years old, and it was a NIGHTMARE. He screamed for mom and they couldn't get anything done. Mom found this practice (don't know the name - they are in Orland Park) and things went so much more smoothly from the beginning. The dentist said that he never cried or asked for her once, and was very cooperative. I think he used my mom as a "crutch" at the first office - he knew he could get away with that behavior with her present. He goes more often than normal due to some strangely formed molars, and they've never had a problem since mom stopped going back.

R.:

I found this un acceptable and searched till I found a dentist where I could be in the room.

She is: Nancy Hijjawi ###-###-####.

P. RLC, IBCLC
Pres. Lactation Support Group, Inc
www.lactationsupportgroup.com

My kids go to Dr. Ewers in Elmhurst. www.dentistryforkids.com

Both my kids started going at 2 years old, and I've been in the room with them for both of their 2-year-old visits as well as my daughter's 3-year-old visit. I believe I'm to be in the room until they are 4 years old. My guess is that if I insisted, they'd allow me to stay in with the kids longer, but I'm not sure of that. I would also feel uneasy about not being in the room even though I completely trust the dentist. I think I'd be more comfortable when they're about 6 years old. Hope you get some good advice.

Hi,
I took my kids to see Dr. Zucchero at Res. Hospital just west of Harlem, North of 90. ###-###-####.

They have a large exam room with 4 exam chairs and about 10 chairs for the parents to sit in.

I would not feel comfortable with my child in the exam room w/out me.

I am a dentist myself that treats children, so I can explain the reasons on both sides. First, if you are uneasy about leaving your daughter in the exam room, ask if this is a strict policy, maybe you can go in for the first visit. Also, there are offices where you can watch what's going on through glass, but the children can't see you--so they think you are not around. It's really to ensure cooperation, and also to give the dentist some authority. If the child doesn't learn to listen to the dentist, they will not be a good patient. I allow parents in the room, but if the child is uncooperative, I ask the parents to leave. While they're gone, I negotiate with the child that if they stop crying and help me, mom can come back in. Usually, that works. They just cry for mom, and they know where mom's buttons are, so they can be "rescued". Once mom's not there, a lot of them behave perfectly. But if you're daughter is a good patient, you should have no worries whatsoever. Just think of it as practice for when you have to leave her at school by herself:)

I am pregnant with my first child so I have never come across this problem but my bradley teacher brought this up and I agree. There would be no way that I would allow any child of mine to be examineed in any way if I was not there in the room. In her story a dentist tried to tell her the same thing and she told him goodbye. There are dentists that allow you to be in the room. Never be afraid to stand up for your rights as a parent and believe in your instincts, I believe they are what keep your baby safe.

I must second Dr. Zucchero at Res. Hospital just west of Harlem, North of 90. ###-###-####.

He is a very educated Peds Dentist and he works with children in such a positive way. I was sure my son, who gives me a hard time brushing his teeth, was going to have a difficult first visit. It was just the opposite. He watched a little girl go first, and then he was very comfortable to sit in the chair and have his exam. After he was done, he got to stand by Dr. Zucchero's side while his sister had her exam.

My neighbors recommended him and my kids have been very happy. Again, he is very educated and personable. Nice staff too.

This sounds a little weird to me. Our dentist actually has my children sit on my lap if they appear a little scared. I would try another dentist. contact me at ____@____.com is you would like to know the dentist we go to...he's it Berwyn and he's great with kids.

N.

I have taken my son to the dentistry department at Children's Memorial Hospital and they let me stay with him. I do not know about other places policies, but I would think for a routine visit parents would be allowed. It is reasonable for invasive procedures to have parents leave the room, but not for a routine exam.

I understand the way you feel, but you should check out the room first. Udelson is our dentist and he is great. They have 2or3 kids in the big room, and more hygenists than that. They have a big TV on, too. The receptionists and others can go back and forth as needed. No one is ever alone with a child. It is true that they work much better with the kids this way.
Amy

Why???
I wouldn't do it...EVER!!! We've got a great dentist, Dr. Mary Hayes @ 737 N. Michigan. Her number is: ###-###-####
My daughter loves going there.

Best,
L.