About
Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry, located at 220 West 26th Street in the heart of Manhattan, New York, NY 10001, stands as a premier destination for pediatric dental care, dedicated to transforming dental visits into positive, enjoyable experiences for children of all ages. With an additional location in Long Island City at 45-45 21st Street, this state-of-the-art practice has become a trusted dental home for families across New York City, blending cutting-edge technology, creative design, and compassionate expertise to deliver exceptional care.[1][3] Founded by two highly accomplished pediatric dentists, Dr. Natasha Larson and Dr. Loren Buonocore, the practice emerged from their shared vision and longstanding professional partnership, initially collaborating in Long Island before expanding to serve the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood and beyond.[5][6]
The history of Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry is rooted in the individual journeys of its owners, each bringing decades of specialized training and real-world experience. Dr. Natasha Larson, a board-certified pediatric dentist and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, boasts 15 years of experience. Her path began with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree earned Magna Cum Laude from Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. She honed her skills through a residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, focusing on pediatric and adult dentistry with an emphasis on dental and facial trauma management, and completed her specialty training at the University of Connecticut and Connecticut Children’s Medical Center.[5] Dr. Loren Buonocore, also a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, brings nearly 20 years of private practice experience. A graduate with honors in Biology from Binghamton University and Phi Beta Kappa inductee, she received the Dean’s Merit Scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, from which she graduated with a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2003. Her specialty training at New York University culminated in her selection as chief resident, handling the most complex cases, and she later served as President of the NYU Pediatric Dentistry Alumni Association.[6] Together, these trailblazers partnered to establish Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry, combining their expertise to create a practice that prioritizes children's comfort and long-term oral health.
At its core, the mission of Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry is to treat every child like their own, fostering a supportive, fun environment where dental care feels like playtime rather than a chore. This philosophy is embodied in their welcoming office design, which features an open hygiene area that encourages younger children to emulate older ones, promoting positive behavior modeling, and a visible sterilization area to instill trust in their rigorous cleanliness standards.[3] The practice employs the latest technology, such as extra-oral digital dental x-rays that reduce radiation exposure by 90%, enhance comfort by eliminating bulky mouthpieces, and minimize gagging—ensuring safer, more efficient diagnostics.[3] Their comprehensive services include routine and diagnostic care, preventive treatments, and specialized interventions tailored to pediatric needs, all delivered by a skilled team comprising pediatric dentists, registered dental hygienists, dental assistants, a practice manager, and dedicated front desk staff.[2][4]
What truly sets Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry apart is its unwavering commitment to personalized, child-centered care in a high-tech yet warm atmosphere. Unlike traditional dental offices that can feel sterile and intimidating, this practice's creative layout and experienced staff—well-trained to comfort anxious children—create a sense of ease and excitement.[3] Dr. Larson's passion for building personal connections and her active lifestyle as a mother of three allows her to relate deeply with families, while Dr. Buonocore's bubbly personality, emphasis on prevention, and availability for concerns ensure tailored treatment plans that address each child's unique needs.[5][6] Their dual locations offer flexible hours, including Saturdays, accommodating busy urban families: Manhattan operates Monday to Friday with varying times up to 6pm and Saturdays 9am-2pm, while Queens extends evening hours.[1][2] This accessibility, coupled with a focus on the safest proven modalities and continuous professional development, positions Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry as a leader in pediatric oral health.[6]
The unique value proposition lies in their holistic approach: not just treating teeth, but nurturing lifelong positive attitudes toward dental health. By prioritizing prevention, advanced training in trauma management, and family involvement, they reduce anxiety, promote education, and deliver outcomes that competitors often overlook. As mothers and sports enthusiasts—Dr. Larson cheering for the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers—they infuse joy into every visit, making Chelsea Pediatric Dentistry not merely a clinic, but a cornerstone of family wellness in New York City. Whether it's a first check-up or complex care, parents can trust that their children receive top-tier, compassionate dentistry that goes the extra mile.[3][5][6] (Word count: 728)
