About
Happy Smile Pediatric Dentistry, located at 220 Madison Ave Suite A in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, New York, NY 10016, stands as a beacon of excellence in pediatric dental care. Established in 2009, the practice was founded by visionary pediatric dentists Dr. Sarah Kim and Dr. Julie Cernigliaro, who united their expertise to deliver high-quality, compassionate dental services to the children of Manhattan. Situated across from the prestigious Morgan Museum and Library, and conveniently near Grand Central Station and Penn Station, the office is easily accessible for families throughout the city. From its inception, Happy Smile Pediatric Dentistry has been driven by a clear mission: to create healthy smiles one child at a time. This ethos is embodied in every aspect of their operations, blending cutting-edge modern technology with profound knowledge and empathy to ensure that each child's dental visit is not only productive but also fun and educational.[2][1]
The practice's history is marked by a commitment to pediatric excellence. Since opening its doors over 15 years ago, Happy Smile has grown into a trusted medical group practice specializing exclusively in pediatric dentistry, serving children with general and specialized needs. The founding doctors, Dr. Kim and Dr. Cernigliaro, were soon joined by Dr. Aaron Shea, forming a powerhouse team of board-certified pediatric dentists. All three are diplomats of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and active members of both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and its international counterpart. This elite certification underscores their dedication to the highest standards in the field, ensuring that patients receive care from professionals who have undergone rigorous examination and peer evaluation.[2]
Dr. Julie Cernigliaro, DMD, brings extensive training in treating children with special needs, achieving board certification in 2006. Her expertise extends beyond clinical practice; she serves as Associate Director of the Pediatric Dental Program at NYU Langone Hospital in Brooklyn and as faculty at NYU College of Dentistry. Dr. Cernigliaro's global perspective, honed through international research and presentations on pediatric dentistry topics, enriches the practice's approach. Complementing her is Dr. Aaron Shea, DDS, who emphasizes evidence-based care informed by the latest research. With his nurturing demeanor, humor, and patience, Dr. Shea fosters positive dental experiences that promote lifelong oral health habits. While specific details on Dr. Sarah Kim's background are highlighted in the founding narrative, her partnership with Dr. Cernigliaro laid the groundwork for the practice's compassionate ethos.[2]
What truly sets Happy Smile Pediatric Dentistry apart is its unique value proposition: a child-centric environment where advanced technology meets emotional intelligence. Unlike general dentistry practices, this specialized office tailors every visit to make dentistry enjoyable, reducing anxiety and building confidence in young patients. Their focus on special needs dentistry distinguishes them further, offering tailored care for children who require extra gentleness and expertise. The team's multifaceted roles in academia and hospital leadership ensure they stay at the forefront of innovations, from safety protocols to new patient forms designed for seamless experiences. Open six days a week, including Saturdays, with hours like Monday and Tuesday 10 AM-6 PM, Thursday and Friday 9 AM-5 PM, and Saturday 8:30 AM-1:30 PM, they accommodate busy family schedules.[1][2]
Services encompass comprehensive pediatric dental care, emphasizing preventive measures, education, and treatment in a fun atmosphere. Parents appreciate the productive outcomes, knowing their children leave with healthier smiles and positive associations with dental visits. In a city teeming with dental options, Happy Smile's combination of location, specialist focus, board-certified expertise, and empathetic care creates an unparalleled experience. Whether addressing routine check-ups or complex special needs cases, the practice consistently delivers results that prioritize long-term oral health and beautiful smiles. As a premier destination, Happy Smile Pediatric Dentistry continues to shape generations of healthy, confident children in Manhattan.[2][1] (Word count: 612)
