There are numerous ways that children can be treated. We acknowledge that not every child is the same and different personalities require different approaches. We do not believe there is only one way to deal with children. Some children need more TLC while others do better with a firmer approach. In rare cases there are children who do require sedation or general anesthesia in order for treatment to be completed safely. However, we do not believe that sedating children is always the best first approach, particularly for simple procedures. Simply drugging a child is not the solution for overcoming fears and anxiety. Instead we believe that molding behavior management through explanation and information is the best way to approach most patients. Through basic parenting and simple psychological principles Dr. Malcolm and his team are able to help mold a childs behavior into a good dental patient without altering a childs natural personality. This allows the child to develop stronger coping skills and more independence.
Dr. Malcolm believes in treating disease in the mouth. Some procedures are difficult for kids to go through due to age or inherent fears. However, sometimes emergency situations or urgent care must be rendered. In these cases, it is not our philosophy to postpone treatment until good dental behavior is present. Rather, the treatment options will be presented anddental carewill be provided safely and as gently as possible despite behavior. This is done to prevent further pain and infection.
Dr. Malcolm was born and raised in Moline, IL. After graduating from Moline High School, he attended the University of Iowa and received his Bachelors of Science Degree while majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry. He continued his education at the University of Iowa and received a Degree of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 2005. Following two more years of specialty training, he received a Pediatric Dental Certification in 2007, also at the University of Iowa. Immediately following his graduation, Dr. Malcolm set up his practice in Belvidere, IL during the summer of 2007.
Dr. Malcolm is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. This indicates that he has gone through a rigorous examination process with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Only dentists that have completed a residency in pediatric dentistry can sit for the board certification examinations. Board certification tests the knowledge and problem-solving abilities of a pediatric dentist. Being a part of the American Board of Pediatric Dentists also involves a lifetime commitment to continued learning and growth within the field. Other dental groups which he is a member of are the following: American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD), American Board of Pediatric Dentists (ABPD), American Dental Association (ADA), Illinois Dental Society (IDS), and Winnebago County Dental Society (WCDS). Dr. Malcolm also serves as a member of the Boone County Health Board.
Dr. Malcolm lives in Belvidere and has three lovely girls Alivia, Anna and Avery. He enjoys working out, biking, playing golf, and reading mystery books. Most days he can be found at the gym, reading his Nook, playing with his girls or having fun with his friends and colleagues.