Business Details
Emergency
services
Pediatric Dentistry in Manhasset, NY
At Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in providing comprehensive dental care for children from infancy through adolescence. Our practice is built on creating a welcoming, stress-free environment where both children and parents feel comfortable and supported. Dr. Rod Stern, a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, brings extensive expertise in treating children, including those with special needs, using advanced techniques and child-friendly approaches.Our team prioritizes preventive care, education, and the use of safe, modern materials like BPA-free sealants and gluten-free prophy paste. We are committed to fostering positive dental experiences that instill lifelong oral health habits while ensuring every visit is engaging and anxiety-free. With extended hours and Saturday availability, we strive to accommodate families' schedules and provide exceptional care tailored to each child's unique needs.
Services
Pediatric dental care
Preventive treatments
Restorative dentistry
Emergency services
Sedation dentistry
Habit counseling
Digital imaging
Oral cancer screenings
Teeth cleaning
Extractions
Highlights and features
- We provide care for children from infancy through adolescence
- Parents are welcome in treatment rooms for added comfort
- We use mercury-free, BPA-free, and gluten-free materials
- Latex-free environment for allergy-sensitive patients
- Specialized training in treating children with special needs
Services
Pediatric Dental Care
Our pediatric dental care focuses on comprehensive oral health for children from infancy through adolescence. We provide age-appropriate treatments in a welcoming environment designed to reduce anxiety. Our approach combines preventive care with specialized techniques to ensure positive dental experiences that build lifelong oral health habits.
Preventive Treatments
Preventive treatments include BPA-free sealants, fluoride applications, and habit counseling to stop thumb-sucking or pacifier use. We emphasize early education about proper oral hygiene and nutrition. These measures help prevent cavities and other dental issues while establishing good dental care routines for growing children.
Restorative Dentistry
Our restorative services address dental injuries and decay with mercury-free fillings and BPA-free materials. We specialize in repairing damaged teeth while minimizing discomfort. The practice uses child-friendly techniques to ensure treatments are completed with minimal stress for both children and parents.
Emergency Services
We provide urgent care for dental injuries including broken teeth and mouth trauma. Our experienced team handles emergencies with calm, gentle care. We offer same-day appointments when needed and guide families through immediate care steps before their visit.
Sedation Dentistry
Sedation options include laughing gas to help anxious children relax during treatments. This safe, effective method keeps children comfortable while remaining conscious and responsive. It's particularly beneficial for complex procedures or patients with special needs requiring extended treatment time.
People
Dr. Rod Stern
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Rod Stern is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist with specialized training in treating children, including those with special needs. He completed a pediatric residency at Geisinger Medical Center and was chosen as Chief Resident during his final year. Dr. Stern focuses on creating positive dental experiences while using safe, modern materials and techniques.
Questions
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?
Pediatric dentists specialize in children's oral health from infancy through adolescence, requiring two additional years of training beyond dental school. They focus on child-specific dental development and behavior management techniques.
What treatments does Shining Smiles Pediatric Dentistry provide?
We offer comprehensive care including preventive services like sealants, restorative treatments like fillings, emergency care, digital x-rays, extractions, and specialized care for children with special needs.
What is the right age for a child's first dental visit?
We welcome children from 1 week to 17 years old. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first visit when the first tooth appears or by age 1.
How do you handle anxious children?
Dr. Stern's friendly approach and parents' presence in treatment rooms help ease anxiety. We use positive reinforcement techniques and offer laughing gas for children needing additional calming during procedures.
Why are baby teeth important?
Primary teeth aid in speech development, proper chewing, and guide permanent teeth into correct positions. Maintaining their health prevents future dental problems and establishes good oral hygiene habits.
How often should children visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends check-ups every 6 months, though Dr. Stern will determine the ideal schedule based on each child's specific dental needs and risk factors.
