Q:
My 3½ -year-old just had her first dentist appointment. When she didn't open her mouth the dentist slipped a devise inside to hold it open, and found one cavity. I'm disappointed that he didn't discuss this approach with me beforehand. I had told him that she had sensory issues because she lived in an orphanage for the first year of her life. Since the exam she has woken up a few nights crying because of the bad memories. How do we go about finding a new pediatric dentist?
A:
I'm sorry that you and your daughter had a difficult experience. I would recommend asking your daughter's pediatrician to recommend a pediatric dentist.
There are different techniques and medications that can be used safely and appropriately to fill your daughter's tooth so it's not traumatic for her. Talk to the new pediatric dentist about your concerns. Together you can discuss what you should say to your daughter before her filling, and agree on an approach for treatment. It's common for a 3½-year old to have her teeth repaired, by the way.
Gregory F. George D.D.S.
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.
