Nicole Heagle, a parent who has been bringing her daughter to a local pediatric dentist for bi-annual cleanings, was left confused and frustrated earlier this week after receiving unexpected news. She was informed via both text and email that the practice was “temporarily closed,” with no explanation provided. This abrupt closure has left Heagle and many other parents questioning the circumstances behind it.
Heagle had always felt confident in the care her daughter received. “The dentist was amazing. He was always very cheery and made the kids feel really comfortable,” she said. Her daughter had never been nervous about visiting, making it a place of trust and security. However, the recent notification disrupted that sense of stability.
After receiving the initial notice, Heagle was further confused when another text followed, stating that they would call to reschedule appointments. “It’s just weird,” she said, noting the lack of clarity. Parents who attempted to show up for their appointments were greeted with locked doors. Many of them, including Heagle, have noticed that Dr. Chris, the practice’s dentist, has been absent for some time, leaving them uncertain about when the practice would reopen and what had caused the closure.
Though initially not overly concerned, Heagle grew frustrated when she realized she would need to find a new dentist for her daughter. The situation took a more serious turn after Heagle visited her Facebook group, East Side Moms, where other parents were sharing their own experiences. “Someone had pulled in to go to their appointment and the staff was coming out saying that the appointments were canceled today and an emergency happened with the doctor,” Heagle explained.
The situation was further complicated by a post from a former employee of the practice, who shared a lengthy and negative comment, ending with the phrase “trust your intuition.” This message, according to Heagle, made her decide to permanently switch dentists, even if the office reopens. “So that just kind of says to me she had to get out,” Heagle said.
For parents affected by this closure, experts suggest contacting the New York State Dental Association (NYDA) for assistance. The NYDA can help with transferring records or finding a new provider, and they can be reached Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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