The Dentists

For parents of young kids, getting them to brush their teeth can take some creativity…even for the pros like Drs. Shilpa Chandiwal, Cindy Hurd, Chanica Veranunt, and Gail Joiner at local Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry.

“Between the four of us, we have five children,” says Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry founder, Dr. Shilpa. “Like all parents, we were so excited when the baby teeth finally poked through around eight months. But then we had to practice what we preach: We had to keep those teeth clean. I remember thinking, ‘Wow, this is really hard…even for a dentist!’”

The American Dental Association recommends you start brushing your baby’s teeth before they even have teeth. Dr. Shilpa explains, “Brushing at this stage won’t look like how you imagine. Simply wipe your baby’s gums with a wet, soft washcloth or gauze every day. The goal is to reduce your baby’s oral hypersensitivity and set them up for success for toothbrushing in the future. The face is such a personal area, and it takes time to adapt to new sensations in the mouth. The earlier the concept of ‘brushing’ is introduced to your baby, the more quickly your little one will learn.”

“But let’s be real,” continues Dr. Shilpa. “Even if you introduce brushing early, some toddlers will still hate brushing their teeth. For these kids, try making teeth time fun! There are lots of fun toothbrushes out there. By allowing your child to choose their favorite, they’ll feel in control. Or how about finding a fun toothpaste flavor? You could even create a little menu: Have two toothpaste options available…giving your child control of the situation every single time you brush. Take turns brushing with your child to avoid power struggles, and you can also role play. Let your child practice brushing on stuffed animals, or let them practice brushing on you. If your child thinks she’s allowed to brush your teeth, it creates an open invitation for you to go and brush her teeth.”

Dr. Shilpa opened Healthy Teeth Pediatric Dentistry in Sugar Land back in 2012, and she opened the Katy location in 2015. Two years ago, the Sugar Land location relocated to a bigger office. Dr. Shilpa employs more than 10 women, almost all of whom are moms. “I’m proud to say that I have accomplished my dream, and I am living it,” says Dr. Shilpa. “I love my staff. We are all strong women, and we wear multiple hats. We’re entrepreneurs, moms, and more. We’re making it happen. I want to wish a very ‘Happy Mother’s Day’ to all the moms out there. Keep making it happen…you’re all doing a great job!”