Every month, Akron Children’s recognizes an employee for providing an exceptional patient experience. Our most recent honoree is Dr. Abidin Hakan Tuncer, pediatric dentist and director of the Celeste Myers Dental Clinic. He recently received these kind comments from a grateful mom:
“My son got a chipped tooth during a baseball game. The next morning, I called the dental clinic to see when he could be seen. They asked that I send a picture of the chip, and then the dentist would evaluate for next steps. I did not expect to be seen that day but was hoping to get in soon. However, the scheduler called back and said that the dentist would see my son between 12:30 and 1 p.m. I was very surprised, given that the dental clinic closed at 1 p.m. that day.
“When we met Dr. Tuncer, he was so sweet and funny. His attitude certainly helped calm both my son and me. He was very informative and explained exactly what had occurred with the chip and the plan for a short-term fix that day and a long-term fix when we came back. My son happened to be dressed as Michael Jackson for his wax museum field trip. Not only did the dental clinic get a picture of him in his Michael Jackson hat, but they also got to see him in his full Michael Jackson outfit when we came in that afternoon. Dr. Tuncer put my son’s favorite Michael Jackson song on while he worked on him.
“After an overwhelming night and morning, a visit that could have been very stressful was actually quite enjoyable. My son left the appointment feeling so important and happy, and I felt relieved to have the situation taken care of as well as a plan for a permanent fix. Dr. Tuncer took time out of his busy schedule to see my son urgently. However, there was never a sense of urgency from him. He took his time with us, was extremely kind and caring, and never for one second seemed like we had thrown off or changed his schedule at all. I cannot overstate how wonderful he was and how much we appreciated him during that visit!”
Dr. Tuncer, how long have you been with Akron Children’s?
I joined Akron Children’s in February 2026. Although I am still relatively new to the organization, I have already felt the strength of its mission and the deep commitment of the team to children and families.
What drew you to dentistry — and specifically pediatrics?
Growing up, I thought I would become an architect because I enjoyed designing, building and planning. Dentistry brought together many of these skills – precision, creativity, problem-solving and working hands-on – while offering something even more meaningful: the chance to build trust and connect with patients. My personal experiences with dental anxiety also showed me how a clinician’s approach can significantly influence a patient’s comfort and confidence.
During my advanced general dentistry training at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, I provided care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This experience, along with my fellowship specializing in neurodevelopmental and related disabilities, highlighted the importance of prevention, early intervention, personalized care and ongoing support as children with special healthcare needs transition into adulthood. I observed how care gaps can easily arise during these transitional periods.
Pediatric dentistry became the natural path for me because it allows me to build positive relationships early, support families and help prepare children for a lifetime of oral health. It also allows me to teach and mentor future providers so that more children and people with special healthcare needs can receive compassionate, adaptable care. I may not have become an architect, but in many ways, I still build every day: trust, confidence and healthier futures.
You bonded with this patient over Michael Jackson. How do you look for ways to connect with patient families — as well as reduce their nervousness?
I always try to see the child before I see the tooth. In this case, the chipped tooth was the reason for the visit, but my patient arrived with a whole story: an unexpected injury, understandable anxiety and uncertainty, a Michael Jackson outfit and a favorite song. Those details mattered because they gave us a genuine way to connect.
I try to observe and listen for what helps each child feel safe, understood and involved. That may be music, sports, a favorite character, humor, a familiar routine or simply offering small choices during the visit. Every child communicates and adapts differently, and I focus on my patient’s strengths and abilities. My connection starts with my patient’s abilities, not with the diagnosis.
When we slow the moment down, explain what is happening and connect with patients through something meaningful, the entire room becomes calmer for the patient, the family and the care team. Michael Jackson happened to be our bridge that day.
What’s one thing you wish everyone knew about kids’ dental health?
I wish everyone knew that baby teeth matter and that children’s oral health is part of their overall health. Dental health affects eating, sleeping, speech, growth, learning, confidence and quality of life. Baby teeth help children chew, speak and smile – and they hold space for permanent teeth.
Early dental visits and positive experiences can make a major difference, not only in preventing dental problems but also in helping children feel safe and comfortable with care throughout life.
What does family-centered care mean to you?
Family-centered care means caring with children and families, building relationships with them, not simply for them. Parents and caregivers know their child best – and their concerns, observations and goals are essential to the care plan. Children and families should be active partners in the decisions we make.
To me, family-centered care also means designing care around what families need in the moment. That relationship includes listening carefully, communicating clearly, helping families understand their options and creating systems that enable us to respond appropriately when dental needs arise.
What may be routine for us as healthcare providers can feel overwhelming for a child and family. Our role is not only to provide treatment but also to build a calm, reassuring and trusting relationship at that moment.
Learn more about the specialized care available at the Celeste Myers Dental Clinic.
