AAPD’s Parental Guidelines That We Follow
During your child’s appointment, our team will call the patient to be seen. You have the option to tour the clinic and operatory room that they will be seen beforehand or wait in the waiting area. Our many years of experience and studies have shown that children often behave better without their parents present in the clinic area. The dental visit is an opportunity for the child to begin to develop a relationship of trust with the dentist and our team. Without realizing it, parents may misdirect a child’s attention, or give inaccurate information and the child then relies on the parent instead of the dentist. While we love interacting with parents, we don’t want to miss the opportunity to interact with your child. By waiting in our reception area, it allows the child to take ownership of the appointment and it gives our team the opportunity to develop a trusting relationship with your child. When the doctor finishes doing their treatment plan for what they diagnose in the mouth, you will be invited in to be informed of the diagnosis and treatment options.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents of older children remain in the waiting room when children are brought into the dental appointment. Babies and some young children may benefit from having one of their parents in the appointment with them, but it’s usually in a child’s best interest to be treated without parental interference.
Research has shown that children over the age of 3, often respond better to dental treatment when their parents aren’t in sight. Many of our team members have children of their own. Our dental team is specially trained to handle many behavioral problems that might arise. Our dental team has experience treating the smallest of children, and patients with some of the most severe disabilities.
Let’s face it, dental appointments can be uneasy for adults too. A parent may have apprehension about their own experience in the dental chair. Without intending to, parents can transfer their anxiety to the child. Allowing your child to enter the appointment without you means you’re placing trust in our dental team and teaching your child to do the same. It is our specialty to create an environment in which your child feels safe.
Our Practice Always Wants You to Feel Comfortable & Secure
If you decide to tour our clinic floor, we ask the following:
- Assume the role of a silent observer. Your presence is greatly enhanced if you play a passive role. If more than one person is speaking to the child they may become confused. Cooperation and trust must be established directly between the doctors and dental assistants with your child and not through you.
- To allow necessary space for the Doctor and Dental Team to provide outstanding care for your child, only one Parent / Guardian may accompany a patient into the operatory.
- Due to your child’s safety and the safety of our dental staff, we ask that siblings of patients remain in the waiting area. It is our belief that siblings who wait in the waiting area and not accompany patients, have greater success in their own future dental appointments.
- Other methods may be used and explained as needed to guide your child’s behavior and provide a positive dental experience.
Parents and dentists are a team working to ensure the dental health of your children throughout their adolescence into adulthood. It is our hope to have shed a little light on this topic. If you still have questions regarding our policy or concerns with something you read, let us know and we are happy to address them.
Why Pelican Dental Care?
A Great Reason to Smile
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Over 30+ Years of Combined Team Dental Experience
Clinical team fluent in English and Spanish.
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Sharp & Up-To-Date Protocols with Emphasis on Safety, Punctuality & Quality
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Best Junction Between Cost & Quality
Patient Reviews
The Experience You Can Count On
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“I have had multiple services provided including routine care, extraction, implant, crown and new mouth guard. The staff are professional and gentle.”- Sharon K.
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“This is the best dental care I’ve ever had and I’m 67 years old.”- Sue M.
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“Dr Liliana Pérez really gave me hope to smile again.”- Esther P.
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“She just put an implant in and did a wonderful job.”- Joyce C.
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“Jackie was amazing at helping calm my anxiety and the team was great.”- Jenna F.
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“Everyone in the office has been great and very friendly and they got me in quickly.”- Alicia S.
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“First time in my life a dentist has a massage chair in the office that has given me relaxation and rejuvenation - simply spectacular!”- Marie S.
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“The cleanliness in the office makes me feel safe and secure in these days!”- Tania C.