NOT Like Pulling Teeth: A Visit to Dr. Bresler's Cavity Busters

It was time to take Caroline to her routine six month dentist appointment. While some parents may have to drag their children kicking and screaming to the dentist, my kids actually look forward to going to Doc Bresler's Cavity Busters.

Upon entering the office, you realize this is no ordinary dentist office! The sound of little hands banging furiously on white video arcade buttons echos across the room. In the corner, kids stand on plastic steps stools play Ms. Pacman, Donkey Kong 3 and Q-Bert.

An ocean of Nemo characters greets patients in the waiting room. My favorite is Crush (the sea turtle) and his son, Squirt. Bruce the Shark is showing off his new braces, courtesy of Doc Bresler, no doubt.

There is no shrieking drill or small closet size dental room. Instead, patients enter a door with Mr.Incredible's son, Dashiell, karate-kicking on it. This door leads to a large room with red, yellow and blue dental chairs. The kids get to pick out a toothbrush and receive prizes for being brave. The kids even choose their own flavor fluoride treatment: mint, orange or vanilla.

Caroline appeared grinning from ear to ear to show me her pearlly-white smile. In her hands, she held her treasures: a plastic fluorescent yellow bracelet, a red thumb ring that glittered, a red toothbrush and sticker.

Now I know why they call Doc Bresler's "the kids' dentist." Kids love to visit!

Doc Bresler's Cavity Busters is located at 6801 Ridge Avenue.

For more information go to www.cavitybusters.com or call:

215-483-6633.

Great Pediatrician Coming to East Falls!

Dr. Charlene Brock, one of the pediatricians we have featured in our earlier list of doctors in the area, is moving closer to our area. She will be in her new office in April with Dr. Eileen Tyrala. They will be at 3300 Henry Avenue in East Falls (19129). 

Dr Brock is a wonderful pediatrician, great with kids and understanding of alternative vaccine schedules in case that is an issue for you. She takes her time and is happy to answer any questions you have. She is a big supporter of breastfeeding and does not over-prescribe antibiotics when they are not needed.

For more information or to get a head start on scheduling your child's next appointment, you can call them at 215.438.3300.

What's Up With the Docs?: Pediatricians

We know this is one of the most important issues for parentss -- finding good doctors for our kids. So, we've done our homework, asked around, and even met a lot of nearby pediatricians. Here's who makes our short list for the best docs around:
(Of course, this is only our opinion and, as when choosing any doctor, we encourage you to make your own decision from your own personal experience. We understand that everyone has different needs and preferences and the doctors we highlight here may not be right for you.)

Mt. Airy Pediatrics -- Dr. Cady (and entire practice)
7056 Germantown Ave # 215
Philadelphia, PA 19119
215.247.2996
map

Dr. Cady is almost a legend in the area, but has cut back on hours and is hard to get an appointment with. Some only schedule yearly exams with him, since they can do that in advance. The practice is known for being open to extending breastfeeding, spreading out vaccines, etc.

They were not taking new patients for a while (unless you had a newborn), but there is a new doctor, Dr. Tatar, so they are currently accepting new patients. The staff is great and very friendly. They are easy to get on the phone. The waiting room is large, clean, and stocked with great toys.

Many people have said the nurse practitioner, Susan, is also wonderful.

*There is on street parking and a small lot behind the building. Strollers are hard to get inside, as there are stairs leading up to the entrance.

StChris Care at Falls Center

(affiliated with St. Christopher's Hospital for Children)
Dr. Charlene Brock
3300 Henry Avenue, 4th floor

Philadelphia, PA 19129 (East Falls)
215.438.3300


Dr. Charlene Brock is now in her new East Falls office! We have not experienced the new practice yet, but Dr. Brock is great. She is extremely knowledgeable, upbeat, encouraging, and supportive of things like extended breastfeeding. She is great with kids and always patient with questions. She is a wonderful choice for anyone!

Roxborough Pediatrics -- Dr. Danielle Casher
6001 Ridge Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19128
215.487.1450
map

Dr. Casher is well known in this area and has many patients in Mt. Airy. Her children have even attended the Summit program in Mt. Airy. She is known for being extremely personable and following up very often with patients. She has visited homes of patients on several occasions. You will never feel rushed with Dr. Casher.

Her waiting room is nothing to brag about, though. She shares it with another medical office, so it is often filled with patients who do not have children. There is not much room and not many toys. It has been recommended to get early morning appointments in order to avoid a crowded waiting room.

Kids First in Chestnut Hill - Dr. Kline

7700 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118

215.247.1172 / Fax: 215.247.0663

This practice is large and has a reputation for being busy and hard to get on the phone, but we have heard wonderful things about Dr. Kline. She is great with kids and always in good spirits. There is a very large waiting room with toys. 

Park behind the CVS to enter.

Kids First in Flourtown -- Dr. Tomaine
Flourtown Commons, 1811 Bethlehem Pike, Suite A106, Flourtown, PA 19031
215.836.1700
map

Dr. Tomaine is a medical doctor, but also an osteopath. He is known for having a great bedside manner and is wonderful with kids. This Kids First practice is much better than most at answering phones and following up with patients. The staff is extremely nice and helpful.