Pediatric dentist - recommendations?

[cmkeough]

DD will be 3 in February and has a small cavity that needs to be filled. When we went to the pediatric dentist the other week they said that they use a "rainbow blanket" to help keep her contained (think straight jacket with different colored velcro pieces, hence the name rainbow blanket). Parents are not allowed back in the area when DD would get her filling, and they're suggesting not to use novacaine.

Trying to find another dentist ASAP. Preferably in Arlington, McLean or Falls Church but ultimately want a good dentist.

Many thanks!

[Anonymous]

My son was 5 when he had a cavity filled. The dentist used laughing gas to relax him and novocaine wasn't necessary because she used a laser instead of a drill.

We go to Dr. Niloo in Oakton.

[Anonymous]

Dr. Ternisky's practice in McLean.

[cmkeough]

Dr. Ternisky is the practice with the rainbow blanket and no sedation. While they seem really great with children, I am positive my daughter will FREAK out. They said that they had never heard a child scream so loud when they took a look at her...and that was just looking. I don't want to tramatize her with the experience.

[Anonymous]

Another vote for Dr. Niloo!

[Anonymous]

We go to Dr. Dana. We've only been there for cleanings, so don't know what her practice is for cavities, but she's been great at respecting my dd. Not only do we always go back with her, but they're fine with her sitting on my lap in the chair. She doesn't take insurance, but my dental insurance has reimbursed us 100%.

[Anonymous]

I agree, OP. I'm personally scared away from dentists who won't let parents back with their own children. Makes me suspect before I've even let them touch my child's teeth, one of the most sensitive parts of child. I would think that if the parent is there, the child would be more calm - and have no need for a straitjacket. Seems pretty backwards to me.

[Anonymous]

Dr. Christine Reardon. She ROCKS and her entire staff is really gifted with kids.
http://www.drreardon.com/

[Anonymous]

Dr. Kuwabara in NWDC is fantastic. He let my daughter sit/lie ON me for her first cleaning. I don't know if the procedure is different for fillings, but he was so cool and understanding that I can't imagine he would have a rule about no parents.

The wait time for an appointment wasn't bad, compared to other places I called. Maybe three-four weeks? And maybe they'd get you in sooner if there was a problem that needed fixing. Good front office staff.

[Anonymous]

We also love Dana Greenwald in Chevy Chase. She used laughing gas for a similar proceedure for DD, it was very quick and she gives them oxygen so the gas is only in their system briefly. I did not go to Dr. Perez who was highly recommended b/c he does not allow parents back. Just not comfortable with that. I wouldn't enjoy the "rainbow blanket" experience myself, doubt that my kid would either.

[Anonymous]

Another vote for Dr. Dana. We've only been for a cleaning, but it was dd's first trip (age 3) and I was sure she'd be unhappy about it. Instead, she just laid back and let them do a full cleaning and exam. She LOVED getting her nails done afterward (great idea!), and the next morning she woke up and asked if she could go back. I had a dentist as a kid who didn't allow parents back, and I hated it. If my siblings hadn't been there with me, it would have been a really, really bad scene.

[Anonymous]

We use Maryam Mohammedi at Beverly Pediatric in DC and McLean. She first saw DS at age 2 and sptted a cavity. Asked that we give it special attention and waited to fill it for a year until he was age 3. He sat reclined against me, he got sunglasses to wear and lots of prizes. She plays movies and gives laughing gas. Even now, if he wants me in, I get to stay and he's 10.

[Anonymous]

Dr Reardon filled my very anxious child's teeth, did a great job, and helped my child stay calm. A great practice.