Family dentistry is a service that offers comprehensive diagnosis, preventive care, and treatment of common dental concerns for patients of all ages. Since it’s never too early or too late to take better care of your teeth, it makes sense to choose a dentist who can care for your entire family.
At Gentle Dental Care, your family’s treatment is led by Dr. Brad Strober and Dr. Cynthia Butcofski. Together, they bring decades of clinical experience and a strong commitment to ongoing education in our welcoming office in Edison, New Jersey, near Metuchen and South Plainfield.Â
What Does a Family Dentist Do?
Some of the most common services, treatments, and procedures performed at Gentle Dental Care include:
- Oral Health Examination:Â This involves examining the teeth, gums, and jaw for signs of decay, gum disease, bite misalignment, crooked or crowded teeth, and other concerns. X-rays, TMJ evaluations, and oral cancer screenings may also be included.
- Prophylactic Cleaning:Â This preventive treatment removes plaque and tartar buildup to reduce the risk of cavities and gingivitis. Cleanings are typically recommended every six months for both children and adults.
- Gum Disease Treatment:Â Treatment for gingivitis and early periodontitis may involve scaling and root planing. Scaling removes tartar below the gum line, while root planing smooths the tooth root to discourage bacteria buildup.
- Fluoride Treatment and Dental Sealants:Â Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. Sealants protect the grooves of molars where toothbrush bristles may not reach. These treatments are commonly recommended for children but are also available for adults.
- Root Canals:Â When the pulp inside a tooth becomes infected, a root canal removes the infection and relieves pain. The tooth is then restored with a filling or crown. A pulpotomy may be used for infected baby teeth.
- Extractions: Extractions may involve removing baby teeth, damaged adult teeth, or wisdom teeth. Early evaluation of wisdom teeth can help prevent complications later.
- Fillings and Crowns: Fillings restore areas affected by decay. Options include amalgam and composite materials. Ceramic crowns are commonly recommended to restore adult teeth, while stainless steel crowns may be used for baby teeth.
- Tooth Whitening:Â Professional whitening is available for adults with staining caused by food, beverages, or lifestyle habits. Discoloration in children may require alternative cosmetic solutions.
Benefits of Having a Family Dentist
Choosing one dental practice for your entire household makes managing care easier and more consistent. A family dentist allows everyone to receive treatment in one familiar setting, which can reduce stress and improve long-term oral health.
Here are some key benefits of working with a family dentist:
- Convenient Scheduling:Â Coordinate multiple appointments on the same day to reduce extra trips.
- Simplified Insurance & Billing:Â Manage claims and payments through one office instead of multiple providers.
- Continuity of Care: A single team tracks your family’s dental history over time, helping identify changes early.
- Stronger Patient Relationships:Â Children and adults alike feel more comfortable seeing providers they know.
- Comprehensive Care for All Ages:Â From baby teeth to senior dental needs, treatment evolves with your family.
- Early Detection of Dental Concerns:Â Familiarity with your oral health history allows for proactive treatment.
- Comfort & Confidence:Â Seeing the same dental team builds trust and reduces anxiety over time.
A family-focused practice offers both convenience and consistency, making it easier to maintain healthy smiles at every stage of life.
Is a Family Dentist Different From a Pediatric Dentist?
Yes, there are differences. A pediatric dentist focuses exclusively on treating infants, children, and teenagers. They complete additional specialty training in child development, behavior management, and pediatric-specific dental conditions.
A family dentist, on the other hand, is trained to care for patients of all ages, from young children to seniors. While family dentists provide preventive and restorative care for kids, they also treat adults and manage a wide range of dental needs under one roof.
For many families, choosing a family dentist offers the convenience of keeping everyone’s care in one practice while still ensuring children receive age-appropriate treatment.
Why Choose Gentle Dental Care, LLC?
When choosing a family dentist, factors like technology and insurance acceptance may matter. However, what many patients value most is personalized care and trust.
At Gentle Dental Care, LLC, we prioritize ongoing education and advanced training. Dr. Brad Strober graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency in Philadelphia. He has achieved Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry, an accomplishment earned by a small percentage of dentists.Â
Dr. Cynthia Butcofski earned her degree from New York University College of Dentistry and completed her residency at JFK Medical Center in Edison. She has served the Edison community for more than 15 years.Â
Our dentists and their staff provide experienced, attentive care for patients of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Family Dentist Serve Patients of All Ages?
Yes. Our family dental office is equipped to care for children, teens, adults, and seniors. We tailor preventive and restorative treatments to each stage of life and explain care clearly and compassionately.
For young children, visits focus heavily on prevention and comfort. For teens and adults, we address evolving needs, including orthodontic monitoring and restorative treatment.
Can I Bring My Children to See a Family Dentist?
Absolutely. Seeing a family dentist allows children to remain with the same practice as they grow. Early exposure to the dental environment helps children feel more comfortable with routine checkups and cleanings.
How Often Should I See a Family Dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends checkups every six months for most patients. If you have a condition such as periodontal disease, more frequent visits may be recommended temporarily.
Are There Any Procedures a Family Dentist Cannot Provide?
Services vary by practice. At Gentle Dental Care, LLC, we provide comprehensive preventive and restorative services, including fillings, crowns, bridges, extractions, and dental implants. In rare cases requiring highly specialized treatment, we may refer patients to a trusted specialist.
Can a Family Dentist Help With Orthodontic Needs?
Yes. We monitor tooth development and alignment and offer Invisalign for discreet orthodontic correction. For more complex cases, referral to an orthodontist may be recommended.
What Types of Preventive Care Do You Offer for Children?
We provide regular exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to protect developing teeth.
How Do You Handle Dental Emergencies for Children?
We provide prompt care for dental emergencies such as knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, or broken teeth. Parents should contact our office immediately if a dental injury occurs.
When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Visit?
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits help establish healthy habits and monitor development.
What Should I Expect During My Child’s First Visit?
The first visit focuses on comfort and education. We gently examine the teeth and gums and provide guidance on home care.
How Can I Help My Child Maintain Good Oral Hygiene at Home?
Encourage brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once daily, limiting sugary snacks, and maintaining regular dental visits.
What Is the Importance of Fluoride Treatment for Children?
Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces cavity risk, especially while teeth are still developing.
How Do You Address the Dental Needs of Teenagers?
We evaluate wisdom teeth, monitor alignment, and provide restorative and preventive care suited to teens’ evolving needs.
How Do You Address the Dental Needs of Seniors?
As patients age, concerns such as gum disease, dry mouth, and tooth loss may arise. We provide thorough examinations and personalized treatment plans that may include fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures, implants, and periodontal care. We also review medical history and medications to ensure safe, coordinated treatment.
How Do I Pay for Family Dental Care?
Gentle Dental Care participates with Delta Dental Premier and works with most other insurance plans when out-of-network benefits are permitted. We also offer financing through CareCredit, including no-interest options for qualifying patients.
Contact Us for Your Family's Dental Needs
Having all your family’s dental records in one place ensures better continuity of care. It’s easier to spot emerging oral health problems when the same family dentistry practitioner sees you and your kids regularly. Early detection and treatment offer the best chances for a successful outcome.
If you have any questions about our family dentist procedures, please call us at 732.549.5660 or click here to schedule a consultation. We hope to be your practice of choice when looking for a family dentist in Edison, Piscataway Township, New Brunswick, Metuchen, or Woodbridge Township, NJ.
