By Dr. Jeff Young

Pediatric dentists have special training to help anxious children feel secure and comfortable during dental treatment. Both pediatric dentists and staff members choose to work with children because they like kids. Pediatric dentists are trained in many methods to help children feel comfortable with dental treatment. Our practice utilizes a variety of techniques.

Most children are calm, comfortable and confident in a pedicatric dental office. The most common way to help children at dental appointments is to use the "Tell-Show-Do" technique. The children are told what will be done, they are shown the instruments and other equipment to be used, and then the instruments are applied to provide care. Modeling is also a frequently used technique. In this case, a sibling or cooperative child of similar age is used as a model to show a timid child how treatment will be completed. Children are always given frequent praise for all good behavior.

Children who require more than preventive care can have treatment provided in a caring, comfortable manner by using other techniques. Our office utilizes Nitrous Oxide/Oxygen and oral sedation for anxious children. When extensive treatment is required, and a child is extremely anxious and fearful, treatment may be provided in a hospital with general anesthesia.

Our goal is to help patients become confident in their dental visits so they can enjoy a lifetime of excellent oral health. We look forward to providing the highest quality of dental treatment in a caring, comfortable enviroment for your child.