About Pediatric Dentistry
At PDA Dental Group, we create an environment where your child feels safe and comfortable—and can even have fun! We work to ensure that our young patients have a positive experience, from their very first visit.
Our pediatric dentists have specialized training in the treatment of infants, children and adolescents. Together with our staff members we make children feel at ease in the dental office.
We have been working with children and their families in Winchester and Reading for 40 years. Originally a strictly pediatric dentistry group, we have been able to expand our practice to orthodontics and general dentistry thanks in large part to the loyalty of our patients. We are proud to serve Boston-area families from infancy to adulthood.
Our Philosophy
We nurture trusting relationships with our young patients, and we emphasize education and prevention as the cornerstones of good oral health.
A healthy smile starts with the first tooth! We see our youngest patients beginning around their first birthday, when we begin teaching them (with help from mom and dad) good oral hygiene practices that will last throughout their lifetime.
We know prevention is key—and we teach that. Each checkup includes a trip to our on-site “prevention center,” where we teach children about tooth brushing, flossing and rinsing. We also provide parents with recommendations and advice about the use of topical fluorides, sealants, proper diet and healthy foods to promote good oral health.
Meet the Doctors
Dr. Sonia J. Wu, DMD
Dr. Sonia J. Wu is a graduate of Cornell University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree. She received her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Following her graduation from dental school, Dr. Wu completed a two-year residency program in pediatric dentistry at the Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. While in New York, Dr. Wu also served as a Clinical Instructor in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University.
Dr. Wu has been active in community service projects, having provided dental education and screening for children of underserved communities and Headstart, and has worked with the Special Smiles program of the Special Olympics. Dr. Wu has also made a research presentation to the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, is a board certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a member of that organization. She is also a member of the American Dental Association.
Dr. Nicole (Cuff) Harrington, DMD
Dr. Nicole (Cuff) Harrington was born and raised in Winchester, MA. She has been a life-long patient of PDA and can proudly say her experiences have inspired her to become a Pediatric Dentist.
Dr. Nicole is a graduate of Stonehill College where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Biology and was captain of the varsity women’s lacrosse team. Dr. Nicole received her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. While at Tufts, she earned Tufts Merit Scholarships for outstanding academic performance and received the senior award for Clinical Excellence in Pediatric Dentistry. Upon graduation from dental school, her academic honors included magna cum laude and induction into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the National Dental Honor Society. Dr. Nicole completed her residency in pediatric dentistry at the University of Connecticut School Of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Nicole is a board certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and Massachusetts Dental Society. In 2014, Dr. Nicole served as the Chair to the Middlesex District and was awarded the 10 Under ten award by the Massachusetts Dental Society to honor her significant contributions to the dental profession, the community, and organized dentistry.
Dr. Nicole currently resides in North Reading with her husband Josh, sons Tyler, Drew and Chase, along with their dog Brinley. She enjoys the opportunity to provide dental care to children of the community where she grew up and the town where she currently lives.
Dr. Matthew D. Freitas, DMD
Dr. Matthew D. Freitas was raised in Chelmsford, MA. While in high school, he won state championship in both diving and pole vaulting. He is a graduate of Brown University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience and competed on the varsity swimming and diving team. At Brown he was awarded a teaching and research assistantship scholarship in neuroscience and earned the scholar athlete award. Dr. Matt received his dental degree from Tufts University. While at Tufts, he focused his training in pediatric dentistry and specialized training in the treatment of cleft lip and palate.
Dr. Matt obtained his post-graduate specialty training in pediatric dentistry as chief resident at the Lutheran Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Program in Providence, RI. He also completed specialized training in presurgical treatment of cleft lip and palate at New York University. During his residency he was on the cleft team at Hasbro Hospital in Rhode Island, providing presurgical nasoalveolar molding (NAM) for infants with clefts.
In 2020, Dr. Matt was recognized among the "10 Under Ten" by the Massachusetts Dental Society. This recognition is given to 10 dentists every year who have graduated from dental school within the past 10 years, are a Massachusetts Dental Society member, and have made significant contributions to their profession, their community, and organized dentistry.
Dr. Matt is a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Massachusetts Dental Society.
Currently, Dr. Matt resides in Chelmsford, MA with his partner, their three children Miles, Ava and Finn, and their two goldendoodle dogs. He is an avid long-distance runner and has completed several marathons. He enjoys spending time with his family, running and travel.
Dr. Karina Vergara, DMD
Dr. Karina is originally from Colombia. She attended the University of Florida and received a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, she continued on to receive her dental degree from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, where she received multiple distinctions including induction into the National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon. Dr. Karina completed her pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Connecticut and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.
While earning her dental degree, Dr. Karina volunteered and provided dental screenings at various organizations in the Boston area, such as Special Olympics Special Smiles Program, Countdown to Kindergarten and Middle O at Fenway Park.
She is a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a Fellow at the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association.
Dr. Karina understands the importance of creating a comfortable environment for treating her patients as she would treat her own family—with compassion, patience, and respect. When not in the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, and likes staying active by attending spinning classes, yoga, running, hiking and camping. She currently lives in Somerville with her husband.
Dr. Kristen Huber, DMD
Dr. Kristen attended Bowdoin College and graduated Magna Cum Laude receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Neuroscience. She continued her education at Harvard School of Dental Medicine to earn her dental degree, Magna Cum Laude, and induction into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Dental Society. After finishing her dental degree, Dr. Kristen completed her pediatric dentistry residency at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park, NY where she was Chief Resident.
While completing her education, Dr. Kristen participated in an externship and a pediatric rotation at Boston Children’s Hospital, volunteered at ACTION (Action for Children and Teens in Oral Health Need), Give Kids a Smile Day and Yawkey Boys & Girls Club, and provided dental treatment at Harvard Dental Center Teaching Practice. Holding various leadership roles through the years, Dr. Kristen also dedicated her time to numerous research projects in the neuroscience field and tutored students in comparative physiology. Her hard work and dedication earned her various honors such as the Harvard Dental Alumni Association Silver Medal and HMS Scholars in Medicine Community Service Project Award.
She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association.
Dr. Kristen is originally from Maine and very excited to be moving back to the Boston area. She enjoys yoga, meditation and spending time with family and friends. She is an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast!
Dr. Sonia J. Wu, DMD
Dr. Sonia J. Wu is a graduate of Cornell University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree. She received her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Following her graduation from dental school, Dr. Wu completed a two-year residency program in pediatric dentistry at the Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. While in New York, Dr. Wu also served as a Clinical Instructor in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University.
Dr. Wu has been active in community service projects, having provided dental education and screening for children of underserved communities and Headstart, and has worked with the Special Smiles program of the Special Olympics. Dr. Wu has also made a research presentation to the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, is a board certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a member of that organization. She is also a member of the American Dental Association.
Dr. Nicole (Cuff) Harrington, DMD
Dr. Nicole (Cuff) Harrington was born and raised in Winchester, MA. She has been a life-long patient of PDA and can proudly say her experiences have inspired her to become a Pediatric Dentist.
Dr. Nicole is a graduate of Stonehill College where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Biology and was captain of the varsity women’s lacrosse team. Dr. Nicole received her dental degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. While at Tufts, she earned Tufts Merit Scholarships for outstanding academic performance and received the senior award for Clinical Excellence in Pediatric Dentistry. Upon graduation from dental school, her academic honors included magna cum laude and induction into Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the National Dental Honor Society. Dr. Nicole completed her residency in pediatric dentistry at the University of Connecticut School Of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Nicole is a board certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and Massachusetts Dental Society. In 2014, Dr. Nicole served as the Chair to the Middlesex District and was awarded the 10 Under ten award by the Massachusetts Dental Society to honor her significant contributions to the dental profession, the community, and organized dentistry.
Dr. Nicole currently resides in North Reading with her husband Josh, sons Tyler, Drew and Chase, along with their dog Brinley. She enjoys the opportunity to provide dental care to children of the community where she grew up and the town where she currently lives.
Dr. Matthew D. Freitas, DMD
Dr. Matthew D. Freitas was raised in Chelmsford, MA. While in high school, he won state championship in both diving and pole vaulting. He is a graduate of Brown University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience and competed on the varsity swimming and diving team. At Brown he was awarded a teaching and research assistantship scholarship in neuroscience and earned the scholar athlete award. Dr. Matt received his dental degree from Tufts University. While at Tufts, he focused his training in pediatric dentistry and specialized training in the treatment of cleft lip and palate.
Dr. Matt obtained his post-graduate specialty training in pediatric dentistry as chief resident at the Lutheran Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Program in Providence, RI. He also completed specialized training in presurgical treatment of cleft lip and palate at New York University. During his residency he was on the cleft team at Hasbro Hospital in Rhode Island, providing presurgical nasoalveolar molding (NAM) for infants with clefts.
In 2020, Dr. Matt was recognized among the "10 Under Ten" by the Massachusetts Dental Society. This recognition is given to 10 dentists every year who have graduated from dental school within the past 10 years, are a Massachusetts Dental Society member, and have made significant contributions to their profession, their community, and organized dentistry.
Dr. Matt is a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Massachusetts Dental Society.
Currently, Dr. Matt resides in Chelmsford, MA with his partner, their three children Miles, Ava and Finn, and their two goldendoodle dogs. He is an avid long-distance runner and has completed several marathons. He enjoys spending time with his family, running and travel.
Dr. Karina Vergara, DMD
Dr. Karina is originally from Colombia. She attended the University of Florida and received a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, she continued on to receive her dental degree from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, where she received multiple distinctions including induction into the National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon. Dr. Karina completed her pediatric dentistry residency at the University of Connecticut and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.
While earning her dental degree, Dr. Karina volunteered and provided dental screenings at various organizations in the Boston area, such as Special Olympics Special Smiles Program, Countdown to Kindergarten and Middle O at Fenway Park.
She is a Board Certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a Fellow at the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association.
Dr. Karina understands the importance of creating a comfortable environment for treating her patients as she would treat her own family—with compassion, patience, and respect. When not in the office, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, and likes staying active by attending spinning classes, yoga, running, hiking and camping. She currently lives in Somerville with her husband.
Dr. Kristen Huber, DMD
Dr. Kristen attended Bowdoin College and graduated Magna Cum Laude receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Neuroscience. She continued her education at Harvard School of Dental Medicine to earn her dental degree, Magna Cum Laude, and induction into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Dental Society. After finishing her dental degree, Dr. Kristen completed her pediatric dentistry residency at Cohen Children’s Medical Center in New Hyde Park, NY where she was Chief Resident.
While completing her education, Dr. Kristen participated in an externship and a pediatric rotation at Boston Children’s Hospital, volunteered at ACTION (Action for Children and Teens in Oral Health Need), Give Kids a Smile Day and Yawkey Boys & Girls Club, and provided dental treatment at Harvard Dental Center Teaching Practice. Holding various leadership roles through the years, Dr. Kristen also dedicated her time to numerous research projects in the neuroscience field and tutored students in comparative physiology. Her hard work and dedication earned her various honors such as the Harvard Dental Alumni Association Silver Medal and HMS Scholars in Medicine Community Service Project Award.
She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association.
Dr. Kristen is originally from Maine and very excited to be moving back to the Boston area. She enjoys yoga, meditation and spending time with family and friends. She is an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast!
Dr. Juliana Garfinkle, DDS
Dr. Juliana Garfinkle received her Bachelor of Science degree from Vanderbilt University, majoring in Child Development followed by the completion of the Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Program at Harvard University Extension School. She then received her dental degree from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine.
While at dental school, Dr. Juliana was an active member of the community serving as Class Philanthropy Chair, the AAPD Club's Events Coordinator and a member of the Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity. She was awarded the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine Summer Research Fellowship where she examined the role of candies on dental decay in children. Before graduating, Dr. Juliana received the NYAD Student Research Award and ADA/Dentsply Student Clinician Research Award.
Dr. Juliana completed her post-graduate pediatric training at Cohen Children's Hospital at Northwell Health/LIJ in New York earning a Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry and she served as Chief Resident. This position gave her the opportunity to work closely with the Program Director in forming resident schedules, coordinating program changes, acting as the liaison between residents and staff and overall enhancing communication within the program.
When Dr. Juliana is not in the office, she is spending time with her husband, daughter and rescue dog. She is passionate about working with and understanding children and is very excited to bring her experience in pediatric dentistry to PDA Dental Group.
Dr. Hayley Golden, DDS
Dr. Hayley Golden received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Wheaton College and then continued her studies at Baruch College where she completed her Post-Baccalaureate coursework. While attending Wheaton College, she earned Dean’s Honor List, was a Trustee Scholar, a member of the Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society and received the Julia R. Lange Fellowship.
She completed her dental degree at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine where she was a member of the AADMD Club, AAPD Club and the Zsi Xsi Phi Dental Fraternity. During dental school, Dr. Hayley participated in pediatric and clinical externships at Helen Hayes Rehabilitation Hospital, Columbia Pediatric Dentistry Program and Kings County Hospital GPR Program.
Dr. Hayley went on to complete her two-year speciality training at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine where she received her Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry. While in the program, Dr. Hayley served as Co-Chief Resident.
Over the years, Dr. Hayley has volunteered her time to various organizations such as Reach out and Read at NYU Pediatric Dental Clinic, Operation Exodus OHI Event, and Give Kids a Smile, a community based oral health care service.
In her free time, Dr. Hayley enjoys walking her dog and watching The Office with her husband. She also likes to spend her time knitting and doing embroidery. She and her husband just moved to Brookline from New York City and are looking forward to exploring the area!
Dr. Joyce Ganas, DMD
Dr. Joyce Ganas received her Bachelor of Science in Health Services from Boston University Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences. She continued her studies at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine where she earned her Master of Science in Oral Health Sciences. After completion, Dr. Joyce studied at Tuft University School of Dental Medicine to earn her dental degree. She was awarded the Quintessence Award for Research Achievement and the Student Research Fellowship, earned Dean’s List and was inducted into the Robert R. Andrews Research Honors Society.
Dr. Joyce served as Chief Resident while she completed her pediatric dental residency at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.
During her training at Tufts University Dr. Joyce worked as a teacher assistant. While at Boston University, she served as a research assistant promoting oral health in schools and organizing dental clinics and community events in and around Boston.
Dr. Joyce is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association. She currently lives in Boston with her husband and during her free time she enjoys playing tennis and traveling.
Dr. Kasey Ha, DMD
Dr. Kasey Ha graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of California San Diego with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Cell Biology and was the recipient of the Alumni Association Outstanding Senior Award. She received her dental degree at Harvard School of Dental Medicine where she graduated with a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry with Honors in Research. Dr. Kasey served as Chief Resident while she completed her pediatric dental residency at Boston Children’s Hospital.
During her time at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Kasey was awarded the Dr. Roy O. Greep Award for excellence in basic sciences and served on various organizations including the Student Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Admissions Committee, and Student Class Council. She also served as President of the Harvard Chapter of American Student Dental Association.
Dr. Kasey has presented and published research through the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Education Association, and the International Association for Dental Research. She is a recipient of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Graduate Student Research Award. Dr. Kasey has donated her time throughout the community, volunteering at local organizations such as Boston Children’s Hospital Oral Health Educational Program, Special Olympics Massachusetts, and Give Kids a Smile.
Dr. Kasey loves exploring different kinds of foods and traveling. She is also a national gold medalist in martial arts!
Dr. Elizabeth Durham, DMD
Dr. Elizabeth Durham graduated Summa cum laude from Wellesley College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in Biology. She continued her studies at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) where she earned her dental degree. She was the recipient of the Massachusetts Dental Society and Eastern Dentists Insurance Company Matthew Boylan Scholarship for her distinguished work in organized dentistry and in the community.
During her time at HSDM, Dr. Elizabeth held many leadership roles including Team Lead on the Harvard Votes Challenge, Committee Chair on the HSDM Sustainability Committee, COV-ED Academic Mentor and Tutor and Oral Health Educator. Dr. Elizabeth’s participation in dental research projects at HSDM and Boston Children’s Hospital further expanded her oral health knowledge.
Following her graduation from dental school, Dr. Elizabeth completed her 2-year specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Here, she worked extensively with Child Life specialists to develop psychology informed behavior management techniques.
Her dedication to the community and children’s dental health is shown through her commitment to volunteer service. She has given her time at Open Table Food Pantry and Boston Cares. Starting in college, Dr. Elizabeth volunteered at the Harvard Dental School Community Clinic. Here, she worked with providers to develop and direct early intervention oral health education programs. She continued serving families at the only pediatric dental clinic within the Cambridge Health Alliance system while at Harvard. Over the years, she also worked in various positions mentoring and tutoring elementary and high school students. Dr. Elizabeth enjoys illustrating and hopes to write a children’s book one day. An avid hiker, Dr. Elizabeth enjoys exploring mountain ranges all over the world.
Dr. Patrick Cooper, DMD
Dr. Patrick Cooper graduated Cum Laude from University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science degree in Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Healthcare. He continued his studies at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine where he completed his dental degree. His academic achievement earned him induction into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society. During his time in Connecticut, Dr. Patrick was President of the Practice Management Interest Society, Treasurer of the Medical & Dental Student Body, and Founder/President of the UConn SDM Chapter. He also provided dental care to athletes participating in the Connecticut State Special Olympics and was the Children’s Oral Hygiene Instruction Coordinator at My Sister’s Place.
Serving as chief resident, Dr. Patrick completed his post-graduate pediatric residency training at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Massachusetts Dental Society.
In addition to providing dental care stateside, Dr. Patrick has volunteered with the Medical Ministry International Program taking him on eight service trips to Honduras as a part of their global outreach program. He currently resides in Burlington with his wife and their dog. He is an avid Patriots fan and is excited to have the opportunity to work with children and join the PDA Dental Group team!
Dr. Juliana Garfinkle, DDS
Dr. Juliana Garfinkle received her Bachelor of Science degree from Vanderbilt University, majoring in Child Development followed by the completion of the Pre-Health Post-Baccalaureate Program at Harvard University Extension School. She then received her dental degree from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine.
While at dental school, Dr. Juliana was an active member of the community serving as Class Philanthropy Chair, the AAPD Club's Events Coordinator and a member of the Alpha Omega Dental Fraternity. She was awarded the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine Summer Research Fellowship where she examined the role of candies on dental decay in children. Before graduating, Dr. Juliana received the NYAD Student Research Award and ADA/Dentsply Student Clinician Research Award.
Dr. Juliana completed her post-graduate pediatric training at Cohen Children's Hospital at Northwell Health/LIJ in New York earning a Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry and she served as Chief Resident. This position gave her the opportunity to work closely with the Program Director in forming resident schedules, coordinating program changes, acting as the liaison between residents and staff and overall enhancing communication within the program.
When Dr. Juliana is not in the office, she is spending time with her husband, daughter and rescue dog. She is passionate about working with and understanding children and is very excited to bring her experience in pediatric dentistry to PDA Dental Group.
Dr. Hayley Golden, DDS
Dr. Hayley Golden received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Wheaton College and then continued her studies at Baruch College where she completed her Post-Baccalaureate coursework. While attending Wheaton College, she earned Dean’s Honor List, was a Trustee Scholar, a member of the Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society and received the Julia R. Lange Fellowship.
She completed her dental degree at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine where she was a member of the AADMD Club, AAPD Club and the Zsi Xsi Phi Dental Fraternity. During dental school, Dr. Hayley participated in pediatric and clinical externships at Helen Hayes Rehabilitation Hospital, Columbia Pediatric Dentistry Program and Kings County Hospital GPR Program.
Dr. Hayley went on to complete her two-year speciality training at Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine where she received her Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry. While in the program, Dr. Hayley served as Co-Chief Resident.
Over the years, Dr. Hayley has volunteered her time to various organizations such as Reach out and Read at NYU Pediatric Dental Clinic, Operation Exodus OHI Event, and Give Kids a Smile, a community based oral health care service.
In her free time, Dr. Hayley enjoys walking her dog and watching The Office with her husband. She also likes to spend her time knitting and doing embroidery. She and her husband just moved to Brookline from New York City and are looking forward to exploring the area!
Dr. Joyce Ganas, DMD
Dr. Joyce Ganas received her Bachelor of Science in Health Services from Boston University Sargent College of Health & Rehabilitation Sciences. She continued her studies at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine where she earned her Master of Science in Oral Health Sciences. After completion, Dr. Joyce studied at Tuft University School of Dental Medicine to earn her dental degree. She was awarded the Quintessence Award for Research Achievement and the Student Research Fellowship, earned Dean’s List and was inducted into the Robert R. Andrews Research Honors Society.
Dr. Joyce served as Chief Resident while she completed her pediatric dental residency at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.
During her training at Tufts University Dr. Joyce worked as a teacher assistant. While at Boston University, she served as a research assistant promoting oral health in schools and organizing dental clinics and community events in and around Boston.
Dr. Joyce is a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association. She currently lives in Boston with her husband and during her free time she enjoys playing tennis and traveling.
Dr. Kasey Ha, DMD
Dr. Kasey Ha graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of California San Diego with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Cell Biology and was the recipient of the Alumni Association Outstanding Senior Award. She received her dental degree at Harvard School of Dental Medicine where she graduated with a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry with Honors in Research. Dr. Kasey served as Chief Resident while she completed her pediatric dental residency at Boston Children’s Hospital.
During her time at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Kasey was awarded the Dr. Roy O. Greep Award for excellence in basic sciences and served on various organizations including the Student Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the Admissions Committee, and Student Class Council. She also served as President of the Harvard Chapter of American Student Dental Association.
Dr. Kasey has presented and published research through the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Education Association, and the International Association for Dental Research. She is a recipient of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Graduate Student Research Award. Dr. Kasey has donated her time throughout the community, volunteering at local organizations such as Boston Children’s Hospital Oral Health Educational Program, Special Olympics Massachusetts, and Give Kids a Smile.
Dr. Kasey loves exploring different kinds of foods and traveling. She is also a national gold medalist in martial arts!
Dr. Elizabeth Durham, DMD
Dr. Elizabeth Durham graduated Summa cum laude from Wellesley College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in Biology. She continued her studies at Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) where she earned her dental degree. She was the recipient of the Massachusetts Dental Society and Eastern Dentists Insurance Company Matthew Boylan Scholarship for her distinguished work in organized dentistry and in the community.
During her time at HSDM, Dr. Elizabeth held many leadership roles including Team Lead on the Harvard Votes Challenge, Committee Chair on the HSDM Sustainability Committee, COV-ED Academic Mentor and Tutor and Oral Health Educator. Dr. Elizabeth’s participation in dental research projects at HSDM and Boston Children’s Hospital further expanded her oral health knowledge.
Following her graduation from dental school, Dr. Elizabeth completed her 2-year specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Here, she worked extensively with Child Life specialists to develop psychology informed behavior management techniques.
Her dedication to the community and children’s dental health is shown through her commitment to volunteer service. She has given her time at Open Table Food Pantry and Boston Cares. Starting in college, Dr. Elizabeth volunteered at the Harvard Dental School Community Clinic. Here, she worked with providers to develop and direct early intervention oral health education programs. She continued serving families at the only pediatric dental clinic within the Cambridge Health Alliance system while at Harvard. Over the years, she also worked in various positions mentoring and tutoring elementary and high school students. Dr. Elizabeth enjoys illustrating and hopes to write a children’s book one day. An avid hiker, Dr. Elizabeth enjoys exploring mountain ranges all over the world.
Dr. Patrick Cooper, DMD
Dr. Patrick Cooper graduated Cum Laude from University of Connecticut with a Bachelor of Science degree in Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Healthcare. He continued his studies at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine where he completed his dental degree. His academic achievement earned him induction into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society. During his time in Connecticut, Dr. Patrick was President of the Practice Management Interest Society, Treasurer of the Medical & Dental Student Body, and Founder/President of the UConn SDM Chapter. He also provided dental care to athletes participating in the Connecticut State Special Olympics and was the Children’s Oral Hygiene Instruction Coordinator at My Sister’s Place.
Serving as chief resident, Dr. Patrick completed his post-graduate pediatric residency training at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Massachusetts Dental Society.
In addition to providing dental care stateside, Dr. Patrick has volunteered with the Medical Ministry International Program taking him on eight service trips to Honduras as a part of their global outreach program. He currently resides in Burlington with his wife and their dog. He is an avid Patriots fan and is excited to have the opportunity to work with children and join the PDA Dental Group team!
You can help prepare your child for the first visit by telling him that we will “count” his or her teeth and teach both of you how to clean them. You might also show him or her some photos of our facilities.
During your child’s visit, we will perform a full examination of the teeth and jaw, evaluate your child’s bite and clean their teeth. If necessary, we will perform X-rays, but we are very conservative with X-rays for our pediatric patients, and we use equipment that provides maximum safety.
We will explain all procedures in easily-understood language before we begin—no surprises for your child (or you). Following the exam, we will discuss your child’s current and future treatment needs with you and answer your questions.
What age should my child go to his or her first dental visit and what can we expect?
To prevent dental problems, you should make your child’s first appointment when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/ her first birthday. At this appointment, we will examine your child’s teeth, go over oral hygiene (toothbrushing/ home care), diet, tooth eruption, and other anticipatory guidance topics. If possible, a dental cleaning will also be completed.
What should I use to clean my baby’s teeth?
A soft bristled toothbrush with a small head specifically for an infant will help remove bacteria that can lead to cavities. You should brush your infant’s teeth at least once a day preferably at bedtime.
Are baby teeth really important?
Primary or “baby” teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
How often does my child need to come for a check-up?
Typically, a child should come in for a check-up every six months in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, in some cases this may vary and is determined by their individual needs.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and call our office immediately.
How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, we can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.
Where can I learn more about children’s oral health?
- American Association of Pediatric Dentists http://www.aapd.org
- American Dental Association http://www.ada.org
- American Academy of Pediatrics http://www.aap.org
- Isis Parenting Expert Series Webinar with Sonia J. Wu, DMD: All About Teeth & Teething
Source: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- Schedule an initial visit with our office by the child’s first birthday.
- Avoid using a baby bottle with milk, formula or juice as a pacifier, or putting the infant to bed with a bottle.
- Clean in the infant’s mouth, gums and newly erupted teeth with a soft cloth or gauze pad after feedings
- When several baby teeth have erupted, begin brushing teeth with a brush designed specifically for infants.
- When the child will accept toothpaste, begin using a “pea-size” amount of fluoridated toothpaste with each brushing.
- Make the most of fluoride. Maintaining appropriate levels of fluoride helps developing teeth grow strong.
- Care for baby teeth as you would for permanent teeth. Healthy baby teeth lay a strong foundation for incoming permanent teeth.
- For infants and children who persist in non-nutritive sucking, the pacifier is preferred over the thumb or finger. Pacifier habits are generally discontinued more easily and at an earlier age.
Source: The American Dental Association
Source: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry