Pediatrict Dentist Office to Celebrate Grand Opening Thursday in Falls Church

A pediatric dentist office will hold a grand opening this week in Falls Church.

The event is set for Thursday, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Growing Smiles, a pediatric dentist office, located at 80 E. Jefferson St. in Falls Church. The public is welcome to attend. 

The following is a Patch Q&A with owner and pediatric dentist, Dr. Giannina Galliani.

Patch: How did you first get interested in dentistry and why did you decide on pediatric dentistry in particular?
GG: Everything started as a patient. My dentist, who was the dad of one of my high school friends, was always telling me I could be a great dentist because I had the dedication that was required and he thought it was a great profession for a woman because it gives you the flexibility to work and take care of a family.

During my pediatric rotations I found children to be great patients, fascinating and funny. I wanted to be surrounded by that positive energy everyday of my life. 

Patch: Why did you decide to locate your business in Falls Church?
GG: It is a perfect central and blooming location for the Northern Virginia area as well as a well organized and beautiful area. In addition, I'm a Falls Church resident, so it makes my commute much better!

Patch: What makes your practice different from others?
GG: It is designed to cater just to children. We are focusing just on pediatric dental needs and special patients needs. We want to be a child's dental home and be a proud member of their health team.

We will communicate with the family and family's pediatrician if needed to always ensure the best treatment for the child. Our goal is to make a child feel very comfortable and look forward to their next dental visit. 

Patch: What is the best age for a child to have that first dental visit? Is there anything that parents should do to prepare their child? 
GG: The best age is at one year of age, to prevent any future cavities. We will examine the child's mouth to make sure there aren't any dental anatomy issues that will make the patient more prone to get cavities and we will talk to the parents about dental and oral hygiene at an early age as well as address any questions they could have.

I am an advocate of the first visit at the first year; that is why I offer it as a courtesy at my practice. During my eight years of practicing pediatric dentistry I have seen it makes a difference. 

Patch: Will you be offering any services geared to kids (flavored cleanings, prize drawer, decor)?
GG: The office is decorated using the four seasons as a theme and trees (Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter). The name of the practice matches the nature theme — Growing Smiles — and the fact that my goal would be to see the child from an early age until he/she has adult needs (until their smile has matured).

We have also entertaining areas like coloring tables, game stations, toys and children's TV programs and music to make sure the child or patient's siblings are entertained while at the office. We do offer different flavors for toothpaste and Fluoride treatments. At the end of the child's visit, we have our medal ceremony in recognition of exceptional behavior and also a visit to our treasure chest.