Dr. Peter Suh attended and received his bachelors degree in Microbiology and Immunology at U.C. Berkeley. He went on to attend the University of Pennsylvanina, School of Dental Medicine and completed the postdoctoral specialty program in advanced pediatric dentistry at USC /Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. He is Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Suh has been practicing pediatric dentistry since 1995. He has been teaching advanced pediatric dental residents at USC and CHLA as a clinical assistant professor in Pediatric Dentistry at USC. He also has taken care of his private patients at La Canada Flintridge since 2000. He is serving in the California Dental Association Peer Review Committee.
Our vision: We strive to establish a strong bond of trust with each child patient and parents to provide the best care possible. We endeavor to help children accept dental care as a fun and easy, yet important part of their health. We aim for early dental evaluation by which we educate families of prevention so that we control the cause of the disease. In case of the manifestation of dental disease, however, we provide the highest quality of pediatric dentistry using the most advanced technology in addition to our compassionate and tender loving care.
Whether your child's dental needs are a complete exam and cleaning, an occulusal guidance, interceptive orthodontic treatment, a full-mouth restoration, or anything in between, we promise to provide you with exceptional care as we enhance the natural function and beauty of your child's smile. Below are just some of the many procedures and services we regularly provide to our patients with a gentle touch, andbeautiful results.
Pediatric dentistry (formerly Pedodontics/Paedodontics) primarily focuses on children from birth through adolescence. The American Dental Association (ADA), recognizes pediatric dentistry as a specialty, and therefore requires dentists to undertake two or three years of additional training after completing a general dentistry degree. At the end of this training, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry issues a unique diploma (Diplomate ABPD). Some pediatric dentists (pedodontists) opt to specialize in oral care for children with special needs; specifically children with autism, varying levels of mental retardation, or cerebral palsy.
One of the most important components of pediatric dentistry is child psychology. Pediatric dentists are trained to create a friendly, fun, social atmosphere for visiting children, and always avoid threatening words like drill, needle, and injection. Dental phobias beginning in childhood often continue into adulthood, so it is of paramount importance that children have positive experiences and find their dental home as early as possible.
Pediatric dentists fulfill many important functions pertaining to the childs overall oral health and hygiene. They place particular emphasis on the proper maintenance and care of deciduous (baby) teeth, which are instrumental in facilitating good chewing habits, proper speech production, and also hold space for permanent teeth.
Education - Pediatric dentists educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology; thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy. In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.
Monitoring growth By continuously tracking growth and development, pediatric dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the childs self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image.
Prevention Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay. In addition to providing check ups and dental cleanings, pediatric dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.
Intervention In some cases, pediatric dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.