Ask us about our "No Shot" fillings
At Commonwealth Pediatric Dentistry, we believe going to the dentist should feel easy, comfortable, and even fun. From the very first visit, our team takes time to connect with each child, explain what to expect, and make every experience positive.
Dr. Dobson provides evaluation and treatment of lip and tongue ties for infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents. Our approach is highly collaborative. We work closely with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), myofunctional therapists, occupational and physical therapists, and pediatric chiropractors.
A frenum attached to your child’s lip or tongue is a normal part of their anatomy. The lip and tongue has to attach somehow to our bodies, so in a way we are all tied. But, sometimes that attachment is a little too tight. If it’s too tight, it could cause feeding issues for infants, including pain for the nursing mama. As the child grows, we might see speech issues and delays, pickiness and choking on foods, sleep disturbances, narrow jaws and crowded teeth and even bad posture! If you think this might be something your child is experiencing, come in for a consult. We can discuss symptoms and provide resources to the providers we collaborate with to achieve optimal outcomes.
By your child’s first birthday, it’s recommended that they have a dental home. Having a regular dental home ensures that your child receives the preventive care and guidance they need for a healthy smile from the very beginning. While starting dental visits at age 1 may seem early, it not only supports the development of healthy teeth but also helps your child get accustomed to the dentist. The dental office becomes a familiar and comforting place instead of a frightening one.
Once a child is established in the practice, we recommend checkups every six months, or every 3–4 months if they are more prone to cavities.
Dental emergencies can be stressful for both children and parents. At Commonwealth Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Dobson provides prompt evaluation and treatment for urgent concerns, including:
• Concerns after oral trauma (sports injuries, falls, accidents)
Our goal in every emergency visit is to address the urgent concern quickly, provide comfort, and create a clear plan for follow-up care if additional treatment is needed.
When a cavity extends beyond the enamel and into the deeper layer of the tooth, the body cannot remineralize, or heal, on its own. In these cases, Dr. Dobson will work with parents to create a treatment plan that restores the tooth’s function and comfort while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.
Treatment options include:
For some children, dental treatment is best completed under general anesthesia to ensure their comfort and safety. General anesthesia may be considered when:
Dr. Dobson holds credentialing privileges at several operating room facilities, including:
In addition, Dr. Dobson partners with SmileMD, which provides trusted in-office anesthesia services.
Led by American board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Julia Dobson, our team provides:
Comprehensive exam, cleaning, fluoride, orthodontic and early airway evaluations.
Our office uses the Fotona laser to prepare teeth for fillings. In many cases, this advanced technology eliminates the need for numbing shots, while the dual wavelengths also disinfect bacteria to promote healthier, longer-lasting restorations.
Using the LightWalker and the LightScalpel CO₂ laser in collaboration with trusted lactation consultants, & speech therapists.
With in-office general anesthesia in partnership with pediatric anesthesiologists.
And trauma management, same-day when possible.
Including sensory accommodations and a private hygiene room.
Together, we can help your child grow, thrive, and smile with confidence.
