For board-certified pediatric dentist
Dr. Purnima Hernandez, teaching all chil-
dren—regardless of ability or disability—the
skills necessary to successfully receive and
accept dentistry is a top priority. Patients travel
from as far as Massachusetts to benefit not
only from her unsurpassed skill and use of the
latest tools and techniques, but also from her
graduate studies in applied behavior analysis,
which she has integrated into her dental prac-
tice. “My training as a behaviorist is especially
helpful for getting children with phobias or
other specialized needs to sit independently in
a dental chair and tolerate simple treatments,”
she says. “As the mother of a son with autism,
I have seen the positive effect behavior therapy
has had on him in dentistry, as well as in his
daily life.”
Dr. Hernandez and her team are very mind-
ful of each patient’s needs and are passion-
ate about providing a favorable experience.
Before their first visit to her tranquil, spa-like
office, she phones parents to discuss a child’s
temperament, fears and preferences. Appointments are then customized to best alleviate
anxiety. “Among other things, I teach patients
breath control techniques I use when doing
yoga, Pilates and meditation,” she says. Visits
also include intensive education regarding diet
and nutrition based on family preferences.
With her unique training and experience
in both dentistry and behavioral analysis,
Dr. Hernandez is frequently called on to lecture
to dental professionals. She is a graduate of
Columbia University College of Dental
Medicine, where she also received a master’s
degree in dentistry.
Purnima Hernandez, DDS, MA
• Pediatric Dentistry
Bergen Pediatric Dentistry
23-00 Route 208 South
Suite 2-5
Fairlawn, NJ 07410
201-796-4111
bergenpediatricdentistry.com
