By Keith Lacey
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City Councillor Louise Portelance presents the plaque to Dr. Todd Plexman |
Going to the dentist is seldom a pleasant experience for most adults and can be downright frightening for children.
However, one Sudbury dentist and his staff have gone out of their way to ensure children who visit leave the office with a smile on their pearly whites.
Dr. Todd Plexman was recognized Monday by Sudbury?s Children?s First Roundtable, which recognizes individuals and businesses that go out of their way to assist and recognize children in our community.
Plexman, who has operated his practice in Sudbury for 10 years, credited his hard-working staff with making his office a pleasant place to visit for children of all ages.
When any child visits Plexman?s office, they not only get a tour, but there?s a toy box located near the front desk, a ?treasure chest? of toys and games after each appointment is finished and every child gets their picture taken with Plexman or a member of his staff.
?We all know a visit to the dentist can be terrifying for a child, but it doesn?t have to be,? said Plexman.
If you attract and maintain the attention of a young patient and make every visit enjoyable before that patient gets his or her teeth checked, you can alleviate most fears and discomfort.
?I?m very humbled to receive this recognition,? he said. ?To be honoured like this is very special.
?I owe all of this to my staff, who make sure everyone is always put at ease. All we try and do here is try and make this a friendly place. We don?t do anything out of the ordinary, but we do try and make it fun for children.?
City Councillor Louise Portelance, co-chair of the children?s roundtable, said Plexman is a shining example of a business owner and citizen who takes extra care to ensure the lives of children are enhanced.
Harsh Nath, who nominated Plexman for the award, said Plexman?s pleasant, friendly atmosphere puts children at ease.
Sally Spence, chair of the public recognition committee for the Children First Roundtable, says many other individuals, businesses and organizations will be honoured in future months.
?We want to acknowledge and express sincere appreciation to people and groups that display outstanding effort and success in putting children first,? she said.
Each month before the roundtable?s regular meeting, a featured nominee will be recognized publicly, but everyone who is nominated will receive a letter of recognition from Mayor Jim Gordon.
Nomination forms can be obtained by calling 671-CITY (2489), ext. 4313 or 4109.
Criteria for nominating an individual, business or organization include recognizing the diversity and uniqueness of all children; treating children with respect and compassion; empowering children to make good decisions; helping children become good leaders; protecting children and helping them be safe and well; promoting caring, sharing and co-operation; recognizing and being sensitive to the needs of families; and incorporating humour and fun into the environment.
