Meridian Pediatric Dentist specializes in dentistry for children.
Like pediatricians, pediatric dentists specialize in treating very young children to teens. Because of additional pediatric dental training and limiting our practice to children, we are able to keep current on the latest diagnostic and treatment procedures for young people.
Our office is specially designed for treating children from infancy through adolescence, including those handicapped or medically compromised. From common problems to complex reconstructions, we provide an array of dental services to meet your needs in a friendly, caring, and fun environment.
FIRST VISIT:
We begin the first visit by introducing the office environment and ourselves. Most of the time, a basic oral exam is performed. Older children will receive a thorough examination and any necessary dental x-rays of the mouth and jaw. We welcome parents to stay with their child during the examination, at which point we will go over your child's dental needs. If dental work is needed we will thoroughly discuss the recommended treatment options. Depending on your child's level of cooperation, we may also do a cleaning and fluoride treatment.
Morning appointments for children will usually catch them at their most refreshed time. Schedule your child's appointment for the time of day when they are most cooperative. We realize that after-school appointments are most convenient for parents. However, there may be times when we will need to schedule your appointment earlier in the day.
Don't bribe your child or use a dental visit as a form of punishment. When talking to your child, treat the future visit in a positive, excited fashion. Be honest with your child, but be careful not to alarm your child with discomforting thoughts. It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as drill, shot, pull or hurt. The office makes a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about your child or have any special needs so that we may take care of your child in the best way possible.
MEET THE DENTIST:
Dr. Toby Merriman
Dr. Merriman is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Willamette University in 1993. In 2000, he graduated with honors from Oregon Health Sciences University Dental School, receiving his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. During this time, through a volunteer program with Northwest Medical Team, he worked closely with a group of Pediatric Dentists that were providing dental care for the underserved children in the Portland area. This experience led Dr. Merriman to pursue Pediatric Dentistry as a career. He went on to complete his Pediatric Residency at the University of Missouri Kansas City in conjunction with Children's Mercy Hospital in 2002.
Dr. Merriman has been serving the children of the Treasure Valley since July of 2002. He is currently a staff Pediatric Dentist for St. Luke's hospital, and serves as a participant on the cleft lip and palate team in Idaho. He is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Idaho State Dental Association.
Dr. Merriman enjoys being involved in the community. He donates his time to Special Olympics, teaching classes, and speaking to groups on the importance of children's oral health. He coached Lacrosse at Boise and Centennial High Schools, and is a sponsor for Meridian PAL flag football and Little League Baseball.
