Behavior Management / Speediatrics

What is "Speediatrics?"

We meet a lot parents with children that have had previous traumatic experiences with the dentist, or just generally fear the healthcare experience. One of our greatest tactics is to explain what will happen in terms your child can understand and then move quickly and precisely through the treatment. This education and distraction does not allow time for fear to build up. We call this simple and effective approach “Speediatrics!”

Make Appointment

Children's Dental Care

Meet the Pit Crew

OUR TOP FIVE APPROACHES TO HELPING YOUR CHILD FEEL MORE COMFORTABLE...

Voice Modification

Tonality and phrasing are both crucial in helping children feel comfortable and secure. All of our team members use a calm and pleasant tone when speaking to your children, which helps neutralize their fears and become relaxed and trusting.

Tell-Show-Do

Education is a huge part of our core values, so we truly enjoy taking the time to carefully explain what each procedure entails, demonstrating the steps of the procedure, and then performing the procedure exactly as described. We have found this to be key in helping both parents and children have an enjoyable dental experience.

Positive Reinforcement

Celebrating even the small successes can be a BIG deal! Either with a big smile, verbal praise or a high five, we are firm believers in guiding children to appropriate behaviors. We really want them to look forward to coming to the dentist again, and we have found that highlighting good behavior is vital to that future success!

Experience

On a personal level, Dr. Wiley has a family member that he is close to with special healthcare needs. His lifelong friendship and bond led to his passion for and special fondness for working with individuals with these types of conditions. Due to his personal experience, he knew from the beginning that he wanted to help this population in any way he could, and our patients and families love him for it!

Modeling

Some patients feel more comfortable by watching others do the same procedure. Older children or siblings sometimes serve as a great example for younger patients to watch and realize how easy a procedure may be. We often find ourselves giving their favorite baby doll or super hero a check-up to let them be actively involved and understand the appointment process.

If Sedation is Necessary...

There are many factors that are considered when suggesting sedation options such as medical history, age, treatment and behavior. Children who may benefit from sedation dentistry may have:

A fear or anxiety of being at the dentist
A short attention span
Extensive dental work
Unique conditions that may challenge dental care

Nitrous Oxide

commonly known as Laughing Gas

This is a blend of two gasses: oxygen & nitrous oxide. When inhaled, it is absorbed by the body and has a calming effect. Your child will remain conscious and alert throughout the procedure, yet they will experience a sense of well-being and relaxation and be less worried about the sights, sounds and sensations associated with dental treatment. Nitrous oxide is one of the safest treatment options in dentistry and is quickly eliminated from the body by normal breathing. Learn More

We welcome Parents!

There is no one more familiar to YOUR child than YOU. We encourage you to accompany them during their entire visit so you can talk to them and encourage them in your own voice and words. It is also important for parents to see how their child handles routine dental care so that they better understand our recommendations if treatment is needed. We have found that family member’s presence can make a paramount difference in calming them and reducing their fears. If you, as a parent, experience dental anxiety, your child may also sense that feeling. In these cases, we ask that you notify a member of our staff so that we can prepare to help your child more effectively.

No Restraints

We do not believe in restraining your child, as this may cause even more anxiety! We have had much more success with sedation and believe that this is a more effective method in creating a more comfortable dental experience.

Open Office Concept

A traditional dental office environment can overwhelm even the bravest children (and even adults). Our office caters to your child and we have put significant effort into creating a comfortable, open office environment. From the bright colors and playful imagery, our goal is to put your child (and you) at ease. We know the dentist can be stressful, but it is our goal to make the experience an enjoyable one!