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What Is Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to handle the unique dental needs of growing children, providing a safe, comfortable, and educational environment for your child’s dental care journey. At Gentle Dental Keene, we understand that early dental experiences shape your child’s attitude toward oral health, so we strive to make every visit a positive one.

Gentle Dental Keene

333 Winchester Street
Keene, NH 03431

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM 2nd and 4th
Sunday CLOSED

Gentle Dental Keene

333 Winchester Street
Keene, NH 03431

Dental Office Hours

Monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM 2nd and 4th
Sunday CLOSED

Gentle Dental Keene Reviews

  • JA

    Jim Allen

    Keene, NH

    I needed to have a tooth crown reglued, and within a day of contacting I was. scheduled and the work was completed. This in spite of the fact that this crown was not originally installed by this group. Good job as of the day after.

  • WLJ

    Wendy L John

    Keene, NH

    Staff was knowledgeable kind, considerate, extremely helpful in finding my insurance information... I don't think i've ever enjoyed going to the dentist so much as I did today.

  • MP

    Mike Piermarini

    Keene, NH

    Cant say enough about this place. My dental hygienist was really friendly and made me feel comfortable. Dr. Alabbadi is excellent! He is very good at explaining everything in layman's terms so I understand. Great Doctor and great staff. 5 Stars for Gentle Dental in Keene, NH.

Comprehensive Pediatric Dental Services

At Gentle Dental Keene, we are dedicated to providing high-quality pediatric dental care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Our comprehensive range of pediatric dental services is designed to ensure that your child’s smile stays healthy, bright, and beautiful throughout their growth stages. Here’s a closer look at the services we offer:

Routine Exams and Cleanings

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining your child’s oral health. During each exam, we’ll assess the health of your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth. Our team will also perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which helps prevent cavities and gum disease. We emphasize the importance of early detection, ensuring any potential issues are addressed before they become major problems.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

If your child has a cavity, we use tooth-colored fillings to restore the tooth while maintaining its natural appearance. These fillings are durable and blend seamlessly with your child’s teeth, providing a more aesthetic solution compared to traditional metal fillings. We make sure the procedure is comfortable and gentle for young patients.

Preventive Care: Fluoride and Sealants

Fluoride treatments are a simple and effective way to protect your child’s teeth from decay. Fluoride strengthens the enamel, making it more resistant to cavities. In addition, dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop. Sealants help to prevent plaque buildup in the grooves and pits of the teeth, reducing the risk of cavities.

Emergency Care

Dental emergencies can happen at any time. Whether your child has chipped a tooth, is experiencing severe pain, or has had a dental injury, our team provides immediate emergency care. We’re here to help your child with urgent issues like tooth trauma, abscesses, and severe toothaches. Our priority is to relieve pain and restore your child’s oral health as quickly as possible.

Orthodontic Screenings

As your child grows, their teeth and jaw alignment should be monitored regularly. Orthodontic screenings are essential in detecting issues like crowded teeth, misalignments, or bite problems early on. If necessary, we can refer your child to an orthodontist for further evaluation and treatment. Early intervention can often prevent more complicated treatment later in life.

Cavity Prevention

Preventing cavities is one of the most important aspects of pediatric dental care. Our team offers a variety of cavity prevention services to ensure your child’s teeth remain cavity-free. This includes thorough cleaning and polishing, fluoride treatments, and education on the importance of regular brushing and flossing. We also offer advice on diet and nutrition to reduce sugar intake and protect tooth enamel.

Habit Counseling and Education

We understand that some habits, such as thumb sucking or prolonged use of a pacifier, can affect your child’s oral development. Our pediatric dentists offer habit counseling to help children break these habits before they impact their dental health. In addition, we provide education on how to establish healthy oral hygiene routines, including brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. We also guide parents on how to support their children in maintaining these habits at home.

Why Choose Gentle Dental in Keene for Pediatric Dentistry?

Experienced Pediatric Dental Team

  • Specially trained in working with infants, children, and teens
  • Expert care for children with special healthcare needs
  • Gentle, patient-focused approach that puts kids at ease
  • Continuing education in the latest pediatric dental techniques

Child-Friendly Environment

  • Welcoming, soothing office designed with children in mind
  • Calm blue and gray color palette creates a relaxing atmosphere
  • Kid-friendly waiting area with activities and entertainment
  • Parents welcome to stay with their child during appointments

Advanced Technology for Little Smiles

  • All-digital x-rays with significantly reduced radiation exposure
  • Digital modeling for precise treatment planning
  • Modern, gentle equipment designed for children's comfort
  • Minimally invasive techniques that reduce anxiety

Convenient for Busy Families

  • Evening and Saturday appointments available
  • Serving Keene and surrounding Monadnock region communities
  • Easy online appointment scheduling
  • Most insurance plans accepted

What to Expect at Your Child's Appointment

Before the Visit

  • Schedule your appointment online
  • Talk to your child about the dentist in a positive, exciting way
  • Bring your insurance information and any relevant medical history

During the Visit

  • Our friendly team will greet you and your child warmly
  • Parents are welcome in the treatment room
  • We explain everything in kid-friendly language
  • Gentle examination and cleaning appropriate for your child's age
  • Educational guidance on brushing, flossing, and nutrition
  • Plenty of time for questions and concerns

After the Visit

  • Detailed treatment plan if additional care is needed
  • At-home care instructions
  • Schedule your next checkup (typically every 6 months)
  • Reward your child for their great behavior!

Supporting Parents Every Step of the Way

We believe informed parents are essential to a child’s oral health. That’s why we provide resources, education, and guidance from the first tooth to the teenage years.

At-Home Oral Care Tips

Learn how to make brushing and flossing fun, consistent, and effective for your child at every stage.

Understanding Tooth Development

From the arrival of baby teeth to the transition to adult teeth, we help you track what’s normal and when to expect changes.

Emergency Dental Support for Kids

If your child experiences a dental emergency, contact our Manchester office right away. We offer same-day care to treat issues like broken teeth, swelling, or pain quickly and gently.

Insurance and Payment Options at Gentle Dental

At Gentle Dental Keene, we strive to make dental care accessible to all families. We accept most major dental insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to help ensure that you can afford the best care for your child’s smile.

Accepted Insurance Plans

  • Delta Dental
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield
  • Cigna
  • Aetna

Dental Services in Keene, NH

At Gentle Dental in Keene, we offer a wide range of dental services to ensure your oral health. From routine check-ups and cleanings to emergency care, our team is dedicated to providing the best treatment for your needs. We also specialize in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, including fillings, crowns, teeth whitening, and Invisalign. With a focus on comfort and patient care, we strive to make every visit a positive experience for you and your family. Whether you need preventive care or immediate attention, we are here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a pediatric dentist do?

A pediatric dentist specializes in caring for the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence. They provide preventive care, diagnose and treat dental issues, and guide children on proper oral hygiene habits in a child-friendly setting.

At what age should a child see a pediatric dentist?

A child should visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish good oral health habits and allow for early detection of potential issues.

What is the difference between a dentist and a pediatric dentist?

A pediatric dentist has specialized training in child behavior, dental care for infants, toddlers, and teenagers, and dealing with issues specific to children's growing teeth. Regular dentists treat patients of all ages, but pediatric dentists focus solely on children’s dental health.

What are common pediatric dental issues?

Common issues include cavities, gum disease, misaligned teeth, thumb-sucking, and teething problems. Pediatric dentists also help with early orthodontic evaluations and teach parents proper care techniques.

Book an Appointment

First Time at Any Gentle Dental?
Preferred Appointment Time(s)

If your request is a dental emergency, or you would like to call and schedule your dental appointment, contact information for our offices can be found here: Gentle Dental Locations. New patient offer not valid for emergency appointments.