Beyond the Brand: Atlantic Pediatric Dentistry

By: LiliAnn Paras | June 6, 2022 |  Beyond The Brand |  Little Silver

Dr. Matt Safari and Dr. Sally Guerrasio are the husband-and-wife partners at Atlantic Pediatric Dentistry, a practice in Little Silver.

They are each extensively trained pediatric dentists, active in many professional dental organizations, and highly regarded by their peers. But just as impressive is the high regard they garner from the children they treat and their families. Caregivers are encouraged to stay with their children during the exams and treatment, and are often amazed by how a gentle approach allows treatment of even the most reluctant children. The doctors share their approach to working with children to reduce fears, and to help encourage and create life-long commitments to the maintenance of oral health.

Who we are as a family: We are the typical blended American family of the 21st century. We have four wonderful daughters who amaze us each day. Our oldest, Sara, is a freshman at Fordham University and she loves fitness. Ava is also an avid sportswoman with varsity tennis and track on her resume. Johanna is third and is entering high school next year, hoping to make the tennis team and entering her school’s finance academy. Farrah is the youngest and she loves everything about school, soccer, and her friends.

What we want you to know about Atlantic Pediatric Dentistry: Our office is made for families! We want our patients to feel welcome and supported by their siblings and parents when they are in the dental chair. Our “open door” policy encourages the entire family to learn about how to optimize a child’s dental health, all while in a comforting and supportive environment. We take our patient’s comfort seriously and use the latest technology, the Solea® laser, to reduce the need for traditional drilling and local anesthesia.

Our biggest influence in choosing pediatric dentistry: We each chose pediatric dentistry for the tremendous rewards and satisfaction that working with children brings. Our greatest win is when we help a child move from a place of fear and uncertainty in the dental chair to one of confidence and happiness.
 

Left to right: Sally Guerrasio-Safari, Johanna Tryon, Farrah Safari (front), Sara Safari (back), Ava Safari, and Matt Safari (Family Photo Credit: James Michael Photography)
 

A satisfying aspect of our practice: One of the most satisfying aspects is watching the children grow as the years pass by. We share the joys and successes of these families, and often get to see them into their college years as they are choosing their own paths in life.

What sets us apart from others doing what we do: Our office treats all children as if they were part of our work family! We have an exceptional team-many have been with the practice for decades-and when we come together, it is all for the benefit of the child in our care. You will not find more dedicated staff and doctors to treat your most prized possession.

A tip to share with parents about pediatric dentistry: Pediatric dentistry is a specialty within the field of dentistry. All pediatric dentists train an additional 2-3 years after dental school in order to provide expert care to the pediatric population. Each child should see a pediatric dentist 6 months after the first tooth erupts or by age one.

What we do when not seeing patients: When we aren’t in our “home away from home”, we are spending time together at our children’s sporting events, visiting with extended family, and traveling around the USA. Dr. Safari excels at chess and Dr. Guerrasio will shop till she drops!

What readers should know about Pediatric Dentistry: It is not just about fixing teeth or hunting for decay; it is about building a relationship with a child and giving children the confidence to maintain their oral health for years to come!