Dear Parents:
We prefer that a parent always accompany their child to their appointment. However, we understand that sometimes another family member or individual may need to bring a child for their visit. Only a parent or legal guardian may authorize us to treat a child. Once that written authorization is given through discussing and signing the treatment plan and necessary health history and consent forms, someone else may accompany your child if necessary. We ask that the parent is available by phone in case treatment changes and if any new new treatment is diagnosed we will send the information home and ask that you call to discuss this and schedule the appointment.
One parent may choose whether or not to accompany your child into the operatory for treatment appointments. For safety reasons no additional children may accompany a parent into the operatory and additional children may not be left alone in the reception area. Although we sense that some children do better without parents present, we are open, when feasible, to having you with your child. Please keep in mind there may be some circumstances when you may not accompany your child, such as but not limited to: when x-rays are taken, when oral conscious sedation is to be employed, or when you are pregnant and nitrous oxide will be used. If you choose to be present, we suggest the following guidelines to improve chances of a positive outcome:
1. Allow us to prepare your child and explain everything
2. Be supportive of the practice's terminology (IE: sleepy juice, not shots or needles)
3. Please be a silent observer--support your child with touches
A . This allows us to maintain communication with your child
B. Children will normally listen to their parents instead of us and may not hear our guidance, thus resulting in confusion
C. You might give incorrect or misleading information without knowing it
4. If asked to leave, be ready to immediately walk away
A. Many children will try to control the situation
B. "Acting out" is normal, but unacceptable during treatment
C. This is intended to "short circuit" the control attempt
D. We will continue to support your child at all times
5. Please be committed to your child's dental care. This includes allowing us to treat your child at the appropriate time of day. Many children do better earlier in the day and this may require that they miss some time in class
6. Please assist us in educating your child about dental health and the importance of regular care. Teach your child by example and always speak well of your personal visits to the dentist
These are very important ways that you can actively help in the success of your child's visit. We are confident that all will go well and hope these guidelines will help prepare you with confidence for the upcoming appointment.