Dr. Golia received a B.A. degree in Biology from Lafayette College in 1976. He received his DDS from Georgetown University School of Dentistry in 1980. In 1981, Dr. Golia completed a General Practice Residency at Hartford Hospital. Dr. Golia is an alumnus of the L.D. Pankey Institute, having taken continuous post-graduate studies there from 1989 until 2008.
The restorative dentist of the 21st century must be at once a student, a practitioner, and an artist. To set my practice apart from others, I rigorously pursue extracurricular professional experience and continuing education in order to be fluent in all facets of dental specialties.
I focus my practice on cosmetic, restorative dentistry and prosthetics, but tailor my services to your individual comprehensive dental health. When complex needs exist, I am able to gather and lead a team of specialists to outline necessary treatment and effectively orchestrate treatment for the benefit of the patient. I have experience in trauma rehab and the ability to interact with colleagues of all medical specialties.
Dentistry, as a specialty of medicine, has become increasingly complex, and it demands a team approach to difficult problems. A commitment to engaging ones mind, seeking out new experiences and treatment modalities, and acting in leadership roles remain essential to my dental practice; this is what sets my practice apart from the rest.
I actively define my practice as a relationship practice- one that treats the person and not just the patient. By emphasizing the humanistic approach to dental care, the process of dental therapy is infinitely easier and more accessible.
I was the Section Chief of Restorative Dentistry, Department of Dentistry at Yale-New Haven Hospital from 2000 to 2020. As a hospital-trained dentist, my knowledge of medicine merges seamlessly with treatment of medically compromised patients and patients with complex medical issues and trauma.
I started out my dental career as a Dental Assistant after receiving my certificate from Briarwood College. This is where I discovered my love for dentistry and the vital role oral health plays in overall health.
I continued my education at the University of Bridgeport, Fones School of Dental Hygiene where I graduated with a BS in Health Sciences. I received the Dr. Paul P. Liscio Award for outstanding Community Dental Health.
Throughout my dental hygiene career, I have always been very active on a component, state and national level. Ive even had the privilege of serving as President of the Connecticut Dental Hygiene Association and represented the Register Dental Hygienists (RDH) in Connecticut on a national level.
Clinically, I am very passionate about all aspects of dental hygiene. Throughout my career, I have specialized in periodontal soft tissue management and implant therapy. I enjoy being proactive and seeing current as well as new clients from adolescences to adults. I enjoy discussing new aspects of dental hygiene during these ever-changing technological advances and paradigm shifts. Today, the field of dental hygiene focuses greatly on the oral systemic link as it relates to our overall health.
I enjoy spending my free time with my wonderful husband, Richard, and two terrific daughters, Margaret & Natalie, at our family-owned and -operated Paradise Hills Vineyard & Winery. I take pleasure in being outside in the fields, tending to the vineyard, feeding my chickens, and greeting visitors who are interested in agriculture and viniculture.
It is an honor and privilege to be a part of Golia Dental and his outstanding staff. Where we have the pleasure of taking care of our family of patients. I love being on board with this wonderful team and bringing my knowledge and expertise to this exceptional practice.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Gum disease has two primary stages. If diagnosed and treated in the first stage, the condition can be reversed and tooth loss can usually be prevented. In order to prevent gum disease,practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist for cleanings and check-ups twice a year.
This stage only affects the soft tissue of the gums, and the patient may not experience any discomfort. Although the symptoms may be very mild, it is important to diagnose gum disease in this early stage before it progresses to periodontitis.
Periodontitis is the name for more advanced periodontal disease and if permitted to progress to this point, not only the gums are affected but the bone structures supporting the teeth will be compromised.
A build-up of bacteria causes Gingivitis. In its early stages, inflammation around the gums is observable, with gum tissues appearing red and swollen. Gums that are easily irritated or that bleed during tooth brushing indicate the presence of Gingivitis. Removal of the plaque buildup is necessary to prevent the development of gum disease.
As the gums become more inflamed, they start to pull away from the teeth, forming spaces known as periodontal pockets. Food, bacteria, and plaque begin to collect in the pockets, leading to infection. The surrounding bone becomes damaged both by bacterial toxins and by the immune systemsresponse to infection.
Thereafter, a comprehensive examination takes place which includes a head and neck cancer screening, temporomandibular joint examination, and a detailed examination of the teeth, soft tissue, supporting structures, alignment, bite, and muscle tonicity. A complete set of digital radiographs are taken and models of your mouth are made, if necessary.
All of the information gathered is compiled and evaluated, and a plan is drawn up to meet your immediate needs and long-term objectives. AII treatment options with cost estimates are discussed. We believe in firm mutual understanding as a basis for successful treatment.
It is recommended that a child have their first dental check-up by the age of 2. Informing your child about their first dental visit is very helpful. At your childs first visit, we will review the medical/dental health history form with you. We will get to know your child and help them to feel comfortable in the office by explaining what will happen during their visit, and showing them the tools and instruments we will use to help keep their smile healthy.
We encourage parents to accompany their child during their visit. This gives you an opportunity to see us working with your child and allows us to discuss dental findings and treatment needs directly with you. A thorough head and neck examination and evaluation of the teeth and gums are performed. Radiographs (x-rays) are taken only if necessary. If no treatment is needed, the teeth will be cleaned and a fluoride treatment will be provided.