When I was young...from Dr. Mullens
February 21st, 2012
As a child, I have to admit that I feared the injection. However, I had a wonderful pediatric dentist, Dr. Charles Fain, that was so patient with me. He was gentle, and he carefully talked me through each and every procedure that he performed on me. Believe it or not, I had to have a lot of dental care when I was young!
I believe that because I have been the dental patient numerous times, I have a lot of empathy now for my own patients. We go to great lengths to be certain that our patients are comfortable during their appointments. There are so many techniques and technologies available now to minimize anxiety and discomfort during dental treatment. We utilize computerized injection systems, offer nitrous oxide and oral sedation, and we also have never abandoned the simple, old fashioned TLC for all of our patients.
I idolized Dr. Fain and he seemed to enjoy caring for me. I thought he had a great job, and as a result, I've nearly always known I wanted to be a dentist. In fact, the attached picture is of me performing my first dental exam on my sister in the back seat of our car! Take special notice of her body language-it screams, "Are you done yet?" Or, "Really, is this the best game we can play on a long family vacation?"
We are especially fond of our young patients. Starting them off with positive experiences at an early age develops a lifelong relationship and commitment to dental care that will positively impact their health for a lifetime. We have many kids in our practice that literally beg their parents to come see us. We are most flattered!
