Smiles for the Future

Smiles for the Future - Pediatric dentist in Glastonbury, CT
379 Naubuc Ave, Glastonbury, CT 06033
Closed today
Opens Monday at 8:00am
SundayClosed
Monday8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday8:00am - 5:00pm
SaturdayClosed

Dr. Gary S. Schulman received his dental degree from the University of Connecticut (UConn) School of Dental Medicine. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and a member of the attending staff at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center. Dr. Gary is an associate professor at UConn School of Dental Medicine, teaching orthodontics to dental students and residents in the Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program. He holds certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support.

While a dental student, Dr. Gary was awarded multiple honors, such as the Academy of Dentistry for Persons with Disabilities Award and the Pierre Fauchard Academy Dental Student Scholarship Award. He then pursued an additional two years of specialty training and board certification in pediatric dentistry an advanced degree in the treatment of infants, children, adolescents and patients with special needs with UConn School of Dental Medicine and Connecticut Childrens Medical Center. Prior to becoming a pediatric dentist, Dr. Gary obtained a Masters degree in Architecture in Chicago and then practiced historic preservation in Wilton, CT.

Dr. Gary is an active member of professional organizations. He served on the Board and as president of the Connecticut Society of Pediatric Dentists. He has participated with the states advisory committees regarding oral health. He currently serves on the Board of the Hartford Dental Society. Dr. Gary has published and presented his research on recognizing a genetic link to dental findings, including delivering a conference keynote speech on the subject. He has also published in the Journal of the American Orthodontic Society. Dr. Gary is consistently recognized by his peers in Connecticut Magazine as one of Connecticuts Top Pediatric Dentists.

Dr. Gary is also particularly dedicated to caring for children with special needs. For example, Smiles for the Future developed a unique program to assist patients with special needs and their parents, to gently acclimate to treatment in the dental environment.

Dr. Gary enjoys volunteering for various charitable causes, such as providing dental care to children at the Connecticut Mission of Mercy, a free dental clinic, and fostering rescued stray dogs. Dr. Gary enjoys long distance running, swimming, and cross country skiing. When not working, he enjoys spending time with his wife, three children and two dogs.

Dr. Magdalena Z. Tauber received her Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Tufts University. Dr. Maggie completed specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Maggie holds privileges at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center where she regularly performs hospital dentistry. She is a member of many organizations, including the Connecticut State Dental Association, American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Maggie takes continuing education courses in all aspects of pediatric dentistry. In the community, she serves as the Vice President of the Connecticut Society of Pediatric Dentists. Dr. Maggie is consistently recognized by her peers in Connecticut Magazine as one of Connecticut's Top Pediatric Dentists. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, two children, and dogs.

Dr. Bina Katechia received her Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Glasgow in Scotland after which time she continued her education in the UK by attaining a Diploma in Forensic Odontology from the University of Hertfordshire as well as a Master of Science in Oral Medicine from The University of London. Dr. Bina then traveled to the United States to complete a residency and fellowship in pediatric dentistry at the University of Connecticut. Since then, she has become a Diplomate for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and serves as Program Director and associate professor for the University of Connecticut Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program. She provides both clinical and didactic instruction within the pre-doctoral and post-doctoral curriculum and has delivered various continuing education presentations. In the community, she serves as the President of the Connecticut Society of Pediatric Dentists, CT Team Leader for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Advocacy Conference, Site Visitor for the Commission of Dental Accreditation and Board Examiner for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Based on her commitment to patient care, teaching, and research Dr. Bina has been awarded fellow status by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This status recognizes those persons who have contributed above and beyond to the field of pediatric dentistry and organized dentistry. In her spare time Dr. Bina enjoys reading, cooking, traveling and spending time with her husband, three children and her black lab Ziggy.

Dr. Lorin B. Sher is a specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. Dr. Lorin received her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Syracuse University. She went on to the University of Connecticut (UConn), where she received both her Doctorate of Dental Medicine and Doctorate in Biomedical Science. Dr. Lorin also completed an additional three years of training in orthodontics at UConn to obtain her Certificate in Orthodontics.

Dr. Lorin has published several articles on the effects of hormones on bone and has presented her work both nationally and internationally. She received numerous awards and honors. She is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, Northeast Society of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, and the Connecticut State Dental Association. Staying up-to-date on literature and attending continuing education courses, Dr. Lorin is passionate about providing state-of-the art orthodontic care. She treats both children and adults with compassion and attention to detail.

Dr. Yu obtained a Master of Sciences degree in Biological Sciences at Florida Atlantic University. She obtained her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Yu then completed a general practice residency at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.

While studying for her degrees, Dr. Yu conducted research, wrote and co-authored multiple scientific articles. She also donated her time to many volunteer activities such as the Montana Dental Mission and the CT Mission of Mercy.

Staying up to date on current literature and attending continuing education courses allows Dr. Yu to master advances in dental care. She has special interests in cosmetic dentistry, root canal therapy and oral surgery.

We know that our office is only as effective and as welcoming as the people who work in it, which is why we take pride in our warm, friendly and well-trained team members! We put your needs first to achieve efficient and comprehensive treatment in a supportive and nurturing environment. We promise to speak candidly with you about possible treatments as well as any risks and associated costs of treatment, and how treatment can address your individual needs.

Our staff is uniquely trained and highly skilled and we strive to provide unparalleled service to each patient. Our staff consists of team members with specialized training and certifications and years of experience in treating patients with the highest level of care. We strive to stay abreast of the very latest in technology and advances by regularly attending continuing education courses and seminars sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the Yankee Dental Congress.

Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose and treat problems with the position, alignment or spacing of the teeth, and related irregularities in the face and the jaw. We use a number of special treatments, including braces and other oral appliances, to correct these problems.

There are two good reasons: aesthetics and function. Having an attractive smile not only changes the way people see you it enhances your own self-image as well. Orthodontic treatment also allows your teeth to function better and makes it easier to keep them clean, which can improve your overall health.

You're never too old to begin orthodontic treatment but if you start at an earlier age, your problems may be easier to treat. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that a child who may need orthodontic treatment should come in for a first visit around age 7.

Teeth that are protruding, crowded together or erupting out of position are clear indications that treatment is needed (View Examples). Less obvious signs are mouth breathing, frequent biting of the cheek or palate, speech difficulties, and thumb sucking that goes past 3-4 years of age. If teeth don't meet properly when the mouth closes, or if jaws make sounds or shift as they move, this may also indicate an orthodontic problem.

Having braces put on is generally painless. Some people experience minor aches and pains in the first couple of days or so, as they adjust to wearing their appliances; periodic adjustments may sometimes cause soreness as well, though it typically lasts only a short time. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to alleviate any discomfort, but are usually unnecessary.

It's different for each person, but generally the active stage of treatment (that is, wearing braces or other appliances) may take from 6-30 months. After that, a retainer is worn for at least several months more.

If your teeth are severely crowded (because your mouth is too small to properly accommodate all of them) or if you have impacted teeth (teeth that are trapped beneath the gum line by other teeth) then extraction may be necessary. In the case of younger patients, early treatment may make extraction unnecessary.

Yes you should pass up the types of foods that could damage or become trapped in your braces. Some of these include raw vegetables, hard candy, caramel, taffy and ice cubes (fortunately, ice cream is OK). We will give you a list of foods to avoid.

In a word: Yes. Of course, whether you wear braces or not, we recommend you wear a mouthguard when playing most sports. Musicians are generally able to play their instruments just as they did before, but they may need a short adjustment period after getting braces.

You do in fact, it's more important than ever! Keeping teeth free of plaque (and potentially, decay) can be challenging when you're wearing braces. Your dentist can help you avoid these problems with frequent cleanings and exams.

Almost always, the answer is yes: If you don't wear a retainer, your teeth can rapidly shift out of position and then all the effort put into your treatment is lost! Your retainer helps you maintain that good-looking smile for a lifetime.

Orthodontic care is a long-term investment in your health and well-being. Yet its cost hasn't increased as fast as many other consumer prices, and many financing options are available that make orthodontic care affordable. Weighed against the true cost of living with problem teeth, however, orthodontic treatment can be a wise investment indeed.

The Magic of Orthodontics Proper alignment of the teeth is basic to Smile Design. Their position dictates how they work together and affects the way you look and smile. Only orthodontic treatment can move teeth into the right position. Simply put, when things look right, they probably are right. Learn the basics of smile analysis and design and whether the magic of orthodontics will work for you... Read Article

Orthodontics for the Older Adult Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, so there's no such thing as too old for braces. In fact, nowadays about one out of every five orthodontic patients is an adult. Yet this figure represents only a small portion of adults who could actually benefit from orthodontic treatment... Read Article

Reviews

Rating 4.4 out of 5 based on 51 reviews

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Cash App
3 years ago
My son has ADHD and anxiety. He has run out and been non compliant they have been wonderfully patient and kind with him, I have been going for years and all of the staff from the secretaries to the hygienists to the docs have been over the top with courtesy and friendliness. Would absolutely recommend


Theresa Mayes
3 years ago
Billing is horrible. Wait is also bad. Waited 20 minutes to be seen. If you're more than 15 minutes late they say `we probably won't be seen' yet they take longer than that to see us. After finally being called in my son was not cooperating and hygienist was impatient and rude. Will not be returning.


Cash App
4 years ago
My son has ADHD and anxiety. He has run out and been non compliant they have been wonderfully patient and kind with him, I have been going for years and all of the staff from the secretaries to the hygienists to the docs have been over the top with courtesy and friendliness. Would absolutely recommend


Theresa Mayes
4 years ago
Billing is horrible. Wait is also bad. Waited 20 minutes to be seen. If you're more than 15 minutes late they say `we probably won't be seen' yet they take longer than that to see us. After finally being called in my son was not cooperating and hygienist was impatient and rude. Will not be returning.


Laura Kelliher
4 years ago
Always have a positive experience! Great employees, kind, kids feel comfortable. Highly recommend!


Samuel Bond
4 years ago
Our twin five-year-old boys have been patients at this dental practice since their first trip to a dentist. Although we have been quite satisfied with the dentists, hygienists, and front office staff, our last two bills have been incorrect. On each occasion their billing manager Marcie was extraordinarily curt and rude when asked about the discrepancy. It was a simple insurance error that was easily corrected, but the customer service issue was not to be resolved. I attempted to address the concern with the office manager, who was completely apathetic. Feeling that the practice didn't care one way or the other whether we were patients or not, I elected the latter and will choose another dentist for our kids.


Maureen Roberts
4 years ago
We have been taking our kids here for years. Love it. Great dentists and staff. They are wonderful with typical and special needs children. Highly recommend!


Sarajean Rudman
4 years ago
Rude front desk staff


Jodi Kabat
4 years ago
So disappointed with this practice. The hygensist my son had here for his first cleaning when we moved here wasn't good with him at all . He didn't like the light and she had no patience with him . I spoke to the office manager to inform them I was switching she was extremely nice and said they would note his chart to give him specific hygienists. Wait, shouldn't all the hygienists be good with all kids ??!! We stayed but then today I was done . I had to change my sons appointment for July 9th and the woman said they are booking into Sept. Ummmm really ? Now, I understand that happens with doctor / dentist offices but it was how rude she was about it. I am shocked this office allows this . Speaking to some friends they knew exactly who I meant and some have even switched because of the rudeness. Dr . Gary is nice too bad this doesn't carry over with his staff . Best decision leaving this practice.


Jodi Kabat
5 years ago
So disappointed with this practice. The hygensist my son had here for his first cleaning when we moved here wasn't good with him at all . He didn't like the light and she had no patience with him . I spoke to the office manager to inform them I was switching she was extremely nice and said they would note his chart to give him specific hygienists. Wait, shouldn't all the hygienists be good with all kids ??!! We stayed but then today I was done . I had to change my sons appointment for July 9th and the woman said they are booking into Sept. Ummmm really ? Now, I understand that happens with doctor / dentist offices but it was how rude she was about it. I am shocked this office allows this . Speaking to some friends they knew exactly who I meant and some have even switched because of the rudeness. Dr . Gary is nice too bad this doesn't carry over with his staff . Best decision leaving this practice.


Samuel Bond
5 years ago
Our twin five-year-old boys have been patients at this dental practice since their first trip to a dentist. Although we have been quite satisfied with the dentists, hygienists, and front office staff, our last two bills have been incorrect. On each occasion their billing manager Marcie was extraordinarily curt and rude when asked about the discrepancy. It was a simple insurance error that was easily corrected, but the customer service issue was not to be resolved. I attempted to address the concern with the office manager, who was completely apathetic. Feeling that the practice didn't care one way or the other whether we were patients or not, I elected the latter and will choose another dentist for our kids.


Sarajean Rudman
5 years ago
Rude front desk staff


Erin Kaiser
5 years ago
My son is generally afraid of coming to the dentist, however, our dental hygenist, Sam, was super sweet and took her time with him. She let him touch her tools everytime before she put them in his mouth to ease his anxiety. He left with a smile on his face!


Maureen Roberts
5 years ago
We have been taking our kids here for years. Love it. Great dentists and staff. They are wonderful with typical and special needs children. Highly recommend!


Laura Kelliher
5 years ago
Always have a positive experience! Great employees, kind, kids feel comfortable. Highly recommend!


Pilly Hay
5 years ago
Highly recommend - staff and office environment top notch.


Thitarath Nakacharoensith
5 years ago
Cleanliness, friendly staffs and professional...excellent


Jeffrey Acevedo
5 years ago
I moved here my kid had tooth pain and they said can't see my child till they get old records weeks past had to find someone else


Christina Chandra
5 years ago
I love this dentistry so much! I've been going here for about 18 years. The staff is like family, and I've never had a bad experience.


Ginger Weiss
5 years ago
We have been going to Smiles for 11 years, which included regular exams and ortho. The staff, hygienists, and doctors are amazing. They make sure my kids are comfortable and at ease. I have a son who has a lot of anxiety, and they have always been very accommodating to his needs. Today is our last day (we are moving out of state), and they are rearranging all sorts of things to get my son's retainer completed and to get both my sons cleanings done. Highly recommend!


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