Pediatric dentists have an extra two to three years of specialized training after dental school and are dedicated to the oral health of children from infancy through college years. Infants, young children, pre-teens and teenagers all require different approaches in dealing with their behavior, guiding their oral growth and development, and preventing future dental problems. As trained specialists for children, we are best qualified to meet children's unique needs.
Dr. Z. Christopher Religa joined Central CT Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in 2000. A native of Newington, CT. he received his bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut and his DMD from UConn School of Dental Medicine. He did his residency and specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at the Columbus Children's Hospital in Ohio and also was awarded a Masters of Science in Pediatric Dentistry by The Ohio State University. Dr. Religa is Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry and is a Senior Attending in the Department of Surgery at Middlesex Hospital. Dr. Religa was voted by his peers as one of Connecticut's Top Pediatric Dentists for the Connecticut Magazine. Dr Religa spends most of his free time with his wife, their two children and their dog Chewy. He enjoys traveling, hiking, biking and swimming.
Dr. Tiffany Haim joined Central CT Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in 2010. She attended Brandeis University undergraduate and received her dental training (Doctor of Dental Medicine) from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Haim then completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program at University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey followed by two years of pediatric specialty training at New York University School of Dentistry. Dr. Haim is Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry and a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, New York State Dental Association and the Connecticut State Dental Association. Dr. Haim resides in Old Saybrook, Ct and enjoys traveling, skiing, and playing tennis in her spare time.
Dr. Robert Pesce, Jr. joined Central CT Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in 2015. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Tufts University in 2000. After working as an engineer for a few years, he decided to go back to school to become a dentist and orthodontist. Dr. Pesce received his dental degree (DMD) from the University of Connecticut in 2007, and completed a three-year orthodontic residency with a Masters in Dental Science from the University of Connecticut in 2010. Dr. Pesce is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the Connecticut State Orthodontic Society, the American Dental Association, and the Connecticut State Dental Association. Dr. Pesce lives in Wethersfield with his wife, Trisha, and their two daughters. As an avid Boston sports fan, he really enjoys following his hometown teams. He also loves to watch movies, travel, and spend time with family and friends. Dr. Pesce looks forward to meeting new patients and providing healthy, beautiful smiles.
Dr. Ritu Mohan is a board certified pediatric dentist who graduated as an Advanced Placement student from NYU College of Dentistry with honors and was inducted into the prestigious Omicron Kappa Upsilon (National dental Honor Society). While at NYU, she received Dr. Bernard E. Rudner Memorial Award for demonstrating superior performance in providing oral comprehensive care. She did her specialty training as a pediatric dentist at UConn School of Dental Medicine with extensive clinical training, followed by an additional year of advanced fellowship. Upon graduation, she was awarded a Master of Dental Surgery degree. She is a member of American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and Connecticut State Dental Association. She has a special interest in use of Laser technology in the field of Dentistry. Dr Mohan lives in Farmington with her husband, and twin daughters. She loves cooking, reading, and travelling.
Dr. Claudia Odiaka (or Dr. Claudia as she prefers to be called) joined Central CT Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in 2020. She received her undergraduate degree from Yale University and her dental degree (Doctorate of Dental Medicine) from University of Connecticut. Dr. Claudia then completed a two year pediatric dentistry residency at University of Connecticut and Connecticut Childrens Medical Center. Dr. Claudia is Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry and a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Connecticut State Dental Association, and Connecticut Society of Pediatric Dentists. Dr. Claudias goals are to help children and teens achieve their healthiest mouths and to help them enjoy their time at the dentist.
Reviews
Rating 4.7 out of 5 based on 61 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestJennifer Scoggin
2 years ago
Everyone is lovely, knowledgeable and kind. All our questions get answered and everyone goes out of their way to have a personal relationship with both my children. We have gotten great care!
Kristen Riley
2 years ago
The doctors here are absolutely amazing. The entire staff is amazing but the doctors are really great with anxious kids. They really do understand anxiety and sensory and work with the kids to help them get in the chair, stay in the chair and get them back in the chair for the next time. My son is so anxious and they've gone above and beyond helping him! He really loves the doctors here and how they interact with him and treat him like a person. He takes his dental health more seriously after leaving here each time which makes it so much easier at home! I wish I found this office for my older kids because no one else compares!
RJB
2 years ago
good dentist
Emily Rose
2 years ago
I have been going to this dentist office since I was 3 years old. To give a little background so readers can better understand the full extent of how awesome this office is: I have always been a very anxious person, even as a child. Especially around dental work! I also have a connective tissue disorder that causes me to need more anesthetic/numbing than most. Every single person in this office is friendly, empathetic, and welcoming. They go above and beyond to make sure you are comfortable. I explained when I got a cavity filled recently my situation with needing more numbing (a nerve block instead of just topical anesthetic and novocaine) and they were understanding and believed me, which is unfortunately a rarity in the medical world. They gave me a stress ball since I was very nervous, as well as allowing me extra time to numb up and to have my earbuds in. You're allowed a break at any time, and they let you know to raise your hand if you have any discomfort. Ever since I was a baby, the doctors, receptionists, and dental assistants here have given me respect and kindness. I'm sad I'm going to age out soon, as I don't think I'll ever find another office as awesome. If you need a place you can trust wholeheartedly with your kids, this is it. I have nothing but good things to say, and I've had extensive dental work done. While it's never a fun experience, they do take extra steps to make it a comfortable one, which is beyond appreciated.
Paul Turenne
2 years ago
My daughter always leaves with a smile! Thanks for taking care of her so well.
Darcy Muller
2 years ago
We have had such great experiences at CCPD. I appreciate how flexible and accommodating they are with scheduling , so that both my kids can be seen at the same time. I am able to be present for both appointments, but only be there for the time of one. They are always timely and prompt for appointments. The staff is always friendly and personable and my kids feel comfortable. We would recommend this practice to anyone.
Gina Aresco
2 years ago
Best pediatric dentist ever! I have three children & they all look forward to coming here. Even better that they have Orthodontics in the same office!! The office is clean, all of the equipment is just the right size for kids, and the staff is always pleasant.
Alyson Cooke
2 years ago
I've been going to this office ever since I was two years old. Now both my children are patients here. Absolutely love this office. We had a great appointment today. The dental hygienist Lisa was so great with both my children, I really appreciated her enthusiasm, patience and kindness. The dentist was also very nice, kind and informative. We look forward to our future visits.
Lindsey Doolittle
2 years ago
Couldn't be happier to find this pediatric dentist, all staff is amazing! I will never take my kids anywhere else after finally finding the best place for kids!
Beth Green
2 years ago
This was our first visit to the new Old Saybrook office. It was immaculate! Staff was friendly, helpful, and knowledgable. The appointment was on time with zero wait time. Each step was extremely effecient from check-in, to prep, to xrays, to consult, and procedure. Dr. Pesce explained xrays, status of braces, and next steps very thoroughly and was so personable, making everyone feel very comfortable with the process. We love CCPD!!
Destiny Waters
2 years ago
My son has been going to your office for two years. I remind the providers at every visit of his autism and difficulties surrounding the dentist. Not only is it a new dr we see every time but our last visit this new dr wouldn't even attempt to look at my sons teeth AND I had concerns! I told her I was going to have to hold him down which she said was "unsafe". How else did she expect a child on the spectrum to behave? I am so disappointed in your practices lack of care for children with special needs!
Beth Green
3 years ago
This was our first visit to the new Old Saybrook office. It was immaculate! Staff was friendly, helpful, and knowledgable. The appointment was on time with zero wait time. Each step was extremely effecient from check-in, to prep, to xrays, to consult, and procedure. Dr. Pesce explained xrays, status of braces, and next steps very thoroughly and was so personable, making everyone feel very comfortable with the process. We love CCPD!!
Lindsey Doolittle
3 years ago
Couldn't be happier to find this pediatric dentist, all staff is amazing! I will never take my kids anywhere else after finally finding the best place for kids!
Melanie Caruso
3 years ago
We have always had very positive experiences with this office, from routine cleanings to extractions, they have always been wonderful with my children. I highly recommend them to anyone needing pediatric dental care.
Maryanne McGrath
3 years ago
I was recommend by your office when my children were little by their pediatricion at that time. What a wonderful experience. My older son no longer comes there, obvisouly because he is 26. My younger son is still a patien. He loves everyone there and every one is very sweet to him. We look forward to coming every 4 to 6 months for his checkups. All of the staff is extermely friendly, poliate, compassionate and patient. The office is welcoming, its clean and a very happy enviornment. I highly recommend Central CT Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics for your childen. Thanks to all staff
Jessica Borkowski
3 years ago
I have taken 2 kids to this practice for 8 years now and the dentists, hygienists, reception and billing department have all been stellar. Great care with the flare needed to accommodate young children. Fair billing and works well with the insurance. Emergency needs have been met on the rare occasion that we have needed those services. Highly recommend!!!
D McKenzie
3 years ago
We have been coming to the Middletown office for years and always have a wonderful experience. Everyone is always extremely friendly and personable. The office is very welcoming and efficiently run - we are always in and out quickly. All of the staff, hygienists, and dentists make it a fun place to visit.
Diana McKenzie
3 years ago
We were at the Old Saybrook office to get braces put on my son's teeth. The staff was amazing as always with walking us through this new experience. Everyone was extremely friendly, and each step of the process was explained by the dentist and staff.
Jose Muniz
3 years ago
From the front office to the billing specialist all very welcoming, helpful, and very kind. Dr. Bergen was awesome!!!
Natasha Andrade
3 years ago
We absolutely love the Old Saybrook office and staff. Our son has been through quite a lot of intense dental work at such a young age and I couldn't have asked for a better group of people to work with him. We are very thankful for their gentle touch, kind hearts and incredible workmanship with our son and daughter. I'd highly recommend this office. A special thanks to Dr.Ocallaghan for taking such good care of our son while he was under oral surgery and afterword.
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