Our office schedules appointments at your convenience and when time is available. Children under 5 years old should be seen in the morning because they tend to be more cooperative in the morning. Morning appointments also allow more time for the doctor to spend with your child. Children with a lot of work to be done should also be seen in the morning for the same reason. We understand that morning appointments cause children to miss school; however the absences are excused and can be kept to a minimum when regular dental care is continued. We also understand that working parents may not be able to get time off work so we do also offer extended hours on certain days of each month. We will do our best to accommodate you and your children’s schedule.
Since appointment times are reserved for each patient we ask that when you cancel an appointment, you let us know as soon as possible. As we value your time, we request the same consideration in return. Please give us a minimum of 24 hours’ notice when cancelling or changing appointments.
Cancelling your child’s appointment in advance allows us to schedule another patient who is in need of our care. We understand that unexpected things can occur, but we ask that you notify us ahead of time when possible.
Accompanying your child during work appointments
You may decide whether or not you will accompany your child during treatment for their dental appointment. Although we notice that some children do better without the presence of their parents, we are open to you accompanying your child during their visit. If you choose to be present, we suggest the following guidelines to help make their visit a positive experience:
- Allow us to prepare your child for their visit
- Be supportive of the terminology used by the practice
- Please be a silent observer, you may support your child in other ways
- This allows us to continue clear communication with your child
- Children’s focus seems to be on their parents instead of us and this may prevent them from hearing our guidance
- You may confuse the child by giving them inaccurate information regarding their visit
These are important ways that you can help us achieve a positive outcome for your child’s visit. We are confident that the outcome of your child’s appointment will be positive and hope these guidelines will help prepare you for your child’s visit.