Business Details
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Pediatric Dental & Orthodontic Care in Connecticut
At Central Ct Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we specialize in providing comprehensive dental care tailored specifically for children from infancy through their college years. Our team of board-certified pediatric dentists and orthodontists has completed an additional two to three years of specialized training beyond dental school, equipping us to address the unique dental needs of young patients. We understand that infants, young children, pre-teens, and teenagers each require distinct approaches to behavior management, oral development, and preventive care. Our practice combines advanced clinical expertise with a compassionate, patient-centered philosophy to ensure every visit is positive and educational. We prioritize building trust through gentle techniques and clear communication, helping children establish lifelong oral health habits.Our commitment extends beyond individual care to community education and outreach, fostering awareness of pediatric dental health. With offices in Middletown and Old Saybrook, we serve central Connecticut and shoreline communities, offering accessible, personalized service. Our team includes specialists trained at prestigious institutions, many of whom have been recognized as top pediatric dentists in Connecticut. We maintain affiliations with leading dental organizations and stay current with innovational technologies to deliver the highest standard of care. Whether addressing routine check-ups or specialized treatments, our goal remains consistent: to create healthy, confident smiles while making each child feel safe and valued.
Services
Pediatric Dentistry
Orthodontics
Dental Check-Ups
Emergency Care
Braces
Sedation Dentistry
Laser Treatments
Highlights and features
- Our team includes board-certified pediatric dentists with advanced residency training
- We specialize in age-appropriate care for children from infancy to college years
- Two convenient locations serving central Connecticut and shoreline communities
- Compassionate approach reduces anxiety through child-friendly communication techniques
- Recognized by peers as top pediatric dentists in Connecticut Magazine
Associations and certifications
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
What people say
Fabulous staff
Excellent practice
Positive visits
Genuinely kind people
Worth driving extra minutes
Services
Pediatric Dentistry
Specialized dental treatments for patients aged 0-21, including check-ups, cleanings, and cavity prevention. Our team uses child-friendly techniques to ensure comfortable experiences while addressing developmental needs. Services focus on establishing lifelong oral health habits through education and preventive care.
Orthodontics
Comprehensive orthodontic treatments for children and teens, including traditional braces and modern alignment solutions. We address bite issues, overcrowding, and jaw development to create functional, healthy smiles. Treatment plans consider ongoing growth patterns for optimal long-term results.
Emergency Care
Urgent treatment for dental injuries, tooth pain, and trauma with same-day availability. Our team provides immediate assessment and intervention for knocked-out teeth, fractures, and infections while maintaining child-specific care protocols to reduce anxiety during crises.
Sedation Dentistry
Safe sedation options for patients with dental fear or special needs. We offer nitrous oxide and general anesthesia administered by specialists trained in pediatric sedation techniques. This ensures necessary treatments can be completed comfortably for children requiring additional support.
Laser Treatments
Advanced laser technology for precise, minimally invasive procedures. This approach reduces discomfort and recovery time for treatments like frenectomies and gum reshaping. Our board-certified specialists utilize laser techniques to enhance traditional pediatric dental care with improved outcomes.
People
Dr. Z. Christopher Religa
Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified pediatric dentist with 20+ years experience. UConn-trained specialist and Middlesex Hospital attending surgeon. Recognized Connecticut's Top Pediatric Dentist by peers. Focuses on preventive care and child behavior management.
Dr. Tiffany Haim
Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified specialist trained at NYU and UConn. Serves Old Saybrook community with expertise in pediatric sedation and developmental care. Multiple Connecticut Magazine Top Dentist honoree with 10+ years in practice.
Dr. Robert Pesce, Jr.
Orthodontist
Orthodontist with dual engineering and dental background. UConn-trained specialist offering braces and growth guidance. Member of American Association of Orthodontists. Focuses on creating functional, lasting smiles through biomechanical expertise.
Dr. Ritu Mohan
Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified specialist with advanced laser dentistry training. NYU graduate with honors. Special interest in innovative technologies for minimally invasive pediatric treatments. UConn-trained fellow with fellowship-level clinical expertise.
Dr. Claudia Odiaka
Pediatric Dentist
Board-certified Yale graduate specializing in child-friendly dental experiences. UConn-trained specialist focusing on making visits enjoyable. Active member of multiple dental associations with hospital-based residency experience.
Questions
What ages do you treat at your pediatric practice?
We care for patients from infancy through college years, with specialists trained to adapt techniques for each developmental stage.
Do you accept dental insurance plans?
We accept most major insurance plans and help families maximize benefits. Contact us for verification of your specific coverage details.
How do you handle children with dental anxiety?
Our team uses positive reinforcement, tell-show-do techniques, and customized approaches. For severe cases, we offer nitrous oxide and hospital-based sedation options.
What orthodontic services do you provide?
We offer comprehensive braces treatment for children and teens, including traditional metal braces and interceptive orthodontics to guide jaw development.
Are you equipped to handle special needs patients?
Yes, our specialists have advanced training in managing patients with physical, developmental, or medical complexities using personalized treatment approaches.
Do you offer emergency dental care?
Yes, we provide same-day emergency appointments for urgent issues like trauma, infections, or severe tooth pain with experienced pediatric specialists.
