“My 10-Year-Old Felt Calm the Entire Visit” — Pediatric Dental Care in West Palm Beach
Originally published: July 2026 | Reviewed by Dr. Michael Berglass, DDS
Cossette Castro brought her 10-year-old son to West Palm Beach Family Dental and watched him stay calm and comfortable throughout the entire appointment.
Dr. Ivan Cedeno, DMD, led the visit with patience and clinical precision while the front desk team and dental assistant coordinated every step from check-in to discharge.
Cossette’s experience demonstrates how an independent, family-owned practice structures pediatric visits to eliminate the anxiety children and parents associate with dental care.
Children resist dental treatment when they feel rushed, confused, or ignored. Dr. Cedeno addressed those triggers by explaining each step to Cossette’s son before performing it — a technique the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry identifies as tell-show-do communication, one of the most effective behavioral guidance methods for school-age patients.
The dental assistant reinforced that approach with attentive chairside support, so the child never felt isolated during the procedure.
The front desk staff set the tone before the child reached the operatory chair. Organized intake, friendly greetings, and a welcoming environment reduced pre-appointment nervousness, which means the clinical team started treatment with a relaxed patient rather than an anxious one. That coordination between administrative and clinical staff reflects deliberate practice design.
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Corporate pediatric chains optimize for patient volume — shorter appointment windows, rotating providers, and limited parent communication. West Palm Beach Family Dental operates as an independent practice where Dr. Cedeno sees patients without corporate-mandated time constraints.
Parents receive direct access to the treating provider before, during, and after the visit.
Cossette specifically praised the front desk and dental assistant, noting organization and attentiveness as defining traits. Staff consistency matters for pediatric patients because children build trust with familiar faces over repeat visits.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends establishing a dental home by age one, and the practice’s family-centered model supports that continuity across childhood.
Families without dental coverage can access the $375/year in-office savings plan — not dental insurance — to reduce costs for preventive care visits throughout the year.
Cossette Castro shared her perspective:
“I want to thank Dr. Iván Cedeño and his entire team for the excellent care they provided to my 10-year-old son. The doctor was very professional, patient, and kind, making my child feel calm and comfortable throughout the entire visit. I also want to highlight the attention from the front desk staff and the dental assistant; both were very attentive, organized, and friendly from the moment we arrived. Their care and dedication to the children and families is evident. I definitely recommend this clinic to any parent looking for quality dental care and a warm environment for their children. Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience!”
Cossette’s recommendation targets parents directly — a signal that the practice’s pediatric care model resonates with the decision-maker, not just the patient.
The practice delivers comprehensive general dentistry for children and adults at one location. Pediatric services include routine cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, sealants, and restorative care.
Families schedule multiple members during the same visit window rather than coordinating across separate pediatric and adult providers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that untreated cavities affect approximately 20% of children aged 5–11 in the United States, making early intervention critical for long-term oral health.
A calm first visit — like the one Cossette’s son experienced — reduces the likelihood of dental avoidance in adolescence, so children develop consistent preventive habits rather than crisis-driven dental behavior.
Parents evaluating dentists for children should prioritize three factors: provider communication style, staff consistency, and practice environment.
The American Dental Association recommends selecting a provider who demonstrates patience, uses age-appropriate explanations, and welcomes parent participation during treatment.
West Palm Beach Family Dental serves families across West Palm Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth, Riviera Beach, and Palm Beach from its Forest Hill Boulevard location.
Parents can call (561) 968-6022 to schedule a visit and meet the team before committing to treatment.
What age should a child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends establishing a dental home by age one or within six months of the first tooth erupting. West Palm Beach Family Dental accepts pediatric patients of all ages and tailors each visit to the child’s developmental stage and comfort level.
How does Dr. Cedeno keep children calm during dental visits?
Dr. Cedeno uses age-appropriate explanations and a patient, step-by-step communication style to reduce anxiety before and during treatment. The dental assistant provides attentive chairside support while the front desk staff creates a welcoming environment from the moment families arrive.
Does West Palm Beach Family Dental treat both children and adults?
West Palm Beach Family Dental provides general dentistry, restorative care, and preventive services for patients of all ages at one location. Families can schedule children and adults during the same visit window rather than coordinating across separate dental offices.
Is this a pediatric-only practice?
West Palm Beach Family Dental is an independent, family-owned general dentistry practice serving children and adults. Pediatric services include cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, and restorative care alongside adult services such as dental implants, crowns, and cosmetic dentistry.
How much does a child’s dental visit cost without insurance?
The practice offers a $375/year in-office savings plan — not dental insurance — that reduces costs for preventive visits, cleanings, and exams. New patients receive a free consultation. Parents should confirm specific treatment costs during the initial visit based on the child’s needs.
What should parents look for when choosing a family dentist?
Parents should prioritize provider communication style, staff consistency, and a welcoming office environment. A dentist who explains each step in age-appropriate language and welcomes parent participation builds trust that encourages children to maintain regular dental visits into adulthood.
Can parents stay with their child during the appointment?
West Palm Beach Family Dental welcomes parent participation during pediatric visits. Cossette Castro remained with her 10-year-old throughout the appointment and observed the team’s care directly. Parent presence helps children feel secure and lets providers communicate treatment details in real time.
What areas does this practice serve for pediatric care?
The practice serves families across West Palm Beach, Greenacres, Lake Worth, Riviera Beach, and Palm Beach from 1840 Forest Hill Boulevard, Suite 204. The central location provides convenient access for families throughout Palm Beach County seeking a consistent dental home.
About Dr. Berglass
Dr. Michael Berglass, a dedicated dentist with over 25 years of experience, specializes in dental implants, cosmetic, and general dentistry in Boynton Beach, Florida. A proud alumnus of Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine (DDS, 1996), Dr. Berglass further honed his expertise with residencies in general practice and dental implants at North Shore-Long Island Jewish Hospital. His journey in dentistry has taken him from New York to North Carolina, and now to Florida, where he continues to offer top-notch dental care. Known for his wit and intellect, Dr. Berglass makes every patient's visit comfortable. A member of the American Dental Association and Florida Dentists' Association, he stays at the forefront of dental advancements. Dr. Berglass is committed to providing exceptional care and looks forward to welcoming you to his practice.
About Dr. Cedenos
is originally from Cuba where he did his dental studies. Having graduated with a DDS diploma gave Ivan and his family great satisfaction, considering he comes from a family of dedicated dental care professionals. After years of practicing Dentistry in Cuba for a few years, Ivan decided to continue his growth journey as a professional in the United States. Early on, Ivan worked as a laboratory technician, which gave him some unique insights that dental school does not teach. Having graduated from the University of Puerto Rico as a DMD, Ivan is allowed to practice in the USA.
