The Practice of DFK

Each child's risk level for cavities is different, so we provide personalized attention to every patient and parent.

Education and Communication

We strive to make sure that you get the information you need to make educated decisions and the right choices for your family's wellness.

Appointments

First dental visits are very important. They establish good dental hygiene habits. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association both recommend that it should be between the ages of 12 and 15 months. Your child should be seen by a dentist regularly. The doctor will check growth and development as well as help to avoid problems in the future. Six month appointments should be made at the time of your child's appointment. If you need to cancel an appointment for an emergency or illness please let the office know as soon as possible so that we can re-schedule. We require 48 hours notice to re-schedule an appointment or a fee may apply.

Financial Options

All children should have the benefit of a good dental experience. Whether you are self-pay or have insurance benefits, we have options in place to help you finance your child's dental care.

Insurance

We are often asked which insurances we accept. The best thing to do is call our office. We will happily verify your plan and benefits as well as fill out all of the paperwork for you. Although insurance does help to cover most of the procedures necessary, it rarely covers 100% of treatment. Therefore, we will track insurance payments and let you know if there is a problem or delay. Co-pays are due at the time of your appointment. All patients are responsible for any amount the insurance doesn't cover.

Emergencies

Our staff will begin answering phone calls at 9:00 A.M. most days. If you have a question or a non-urgent problem, they will be happy to help you at that time. If you have an urgent emergency such as trauma to the teeth or facial swelling, the doctor can be reached on the emergency number. Children's Hospital has a dentist on call if your problem is too urgent for a return phone call.

Parking

Parking is available adjacent to the Monroeville, Cranberry and North Hills offices. The Western Pennsylvania Hospital parking garage is available for patients visiting the West Penn location.

Care of Your Children When in the Office

We would like parents to accompany their children for their initial visits. At that time, the hygienist and doctor will give oral hygiene instructions, and discuss diet and other pertinent issues. We will be happy to answer any questions at that time also. As your child reaches kindergarten age we ask that parents remain in the waiting room for routine visits to allow our staff to better communicate with your child and encourage independence. The doctor is always available to talk with you after the appointment. We will make every effort to ensure that your child's visit is a positive one. Don't be alarmed if your toddler cries. We will work hard with them and you to alleviate anxiety. Nitrous oxide and sedation are available, if needed. Rarely do we need these tools.

Meet Our Staff

* All pediatric dentists are board certified.

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