Can a Dentist Choose Not to Work with Children in Their Practice?

The field of dentistry is vast, and different dental professionals have varying preferences and specializations. While some dentists are perfectly content working with kids, others may find it challenging and prefer to focus on adult patients. This article explores the idea of a dentist in a dental office choosing not to work with children and the implications for both the office and the patients.

Personal Experiences and Insights

As a dental owner with a dual degree in prosthodontist and implantologist, personal experiences play a significant role in shaping one’s practice. Initially, during regular dental school training, pulpotomy and pulpectomy were not extensively covered, but a year of specialist training in endodontics provided the necessary skills. Despite this, the author candidly admits that he was not passionate about treating children, leading to a shift in focus towards adult patients. This highlights the importance of recognizing individual preferences and aligning them with practice needs.

Currently, the author's clientele is predominantly adult-based, with a significant portion being local families that provide only modest income. However, these families continue to seek the author's services, which are slightly more expensive than those of local dentists. This situation reflects the complexity of balancing patient needs with financial constraints and professional standards.

Challenges in Treating Children at the Dentist's Office

Dealing with children in a dental office can be both exhilarating and challenging. The author emphasizes that children can be sources of major stress, often due to undisciplined parents and even grandparents who may intrude during treatment sessions. Such interruptions can disrupt treatment flow and create a tense environment for both the children and the dental staff. Making light of this situation with a touch of hyperbole, the author describes the potential for becoming “homicidal” due to such stress, illustrating the serious nature of the issue.

Establishing Mutual Agreements

Recognizing the individual comfort levels of dental associates, it is crucial to establish clear agreements within the practice. An owner dentist needs to communicate with their associates about the desire to avoid working with children. This agreement should respect the preferences of all dental professionals involved while ensuring that the practice continues to meet the needs of its diverse clientele.

The agreement can include provisions such as cross-referrals, where children’s cases are referred to associates who enjoy working with kids, or rotating duties to spread the responsibility. This approach ensures that every patient receives the best care possible, regardless of their age or the personal preferences of the dental professionals.

Conclusion

Choosing whether to work with children is a personal decision that every dentist must consider. While some find it rewarding and fulfilling, others prefer to focus on adult patients. Balancing professional preferences with the needs of the dental office requires open communication and thoughtful decision-making. By establishing clear agreements and recognizing the unique challenges associated with treating children, dental practices can create a harmonious and efficient environment for both staff and patients.

Keywords: dentist, children, office environment, patient care, specialization