Happy Teeth, Happy Kids

By Tammy Villanueva • Photos by Jessica McCafferty

Dr. Chris Goodell’s camping themed pediatric dental office – Happy Camper Pediatric Dentistry in Plattsburgh — is designed to engage children of all ages. Its thoughtful décor provides a welcoming and secure atmosphere, making it a place where a child might eagerly linger, transforming a dental visit into a fun and engaging experience.

I sat down with Goodell recently for a one-on-one interview to learn what motivated him to choose a career in pediatric dentistry and to establish his practice in the North Country.

Goodell grew up in Plattsburgh and graduated from the high school in 2007. It was while he was doing his undergraduate work at North Carolina State University he realized a passion for healthcare and working with his hands. One summer he shadowed two local dentists and that solidified his decision to pursue the career.

Goodell earned his graduate degree from Harvard University’s School of Dental Medicine. It was there, through experiences with patients who often struggled to change habits or had negative dental experiences, he discovered his calling to pediatric dentistry. He was excited by the prospect of working with children and adolescents, eager to demonstrate that dental visits could be a positive and non-frightening experience.

After graduating from Harvard, he remained in Boston for his specialty training in pediatric dentistry at Boston Children’s Hospital. The experience reinforced his conviction that early dental care encounters are crucial for establishing positive attitudes toward healthy oral hygiene that extend into adulthood.

Goodell worked for a time in the Albany area before returning to his home town where he gained experience working with other dentists and then decided to open his own practice. When asked about the inspiration for his Happy Camper office theme which encompasses not only his waiting area, but the treatment rooms as well, he explained, “I wanted to create a warm, welcoming environment that children would enjoy visiting. The theme resonates with local children who enjoy camping with their families. They can associate it with freedom, fun and the outdoors.”

In designing the office Goodell deliberately avoided technology in the waiting room, opting instead for a sensory experience with Adirondack chairs and a dedicated cabin play area. “This design fosters a comfortable outdoor environment where children can learn, grow and feel at ease, which reduces their anxiety about seeing me,” he explained.

Goodell emphasized the importance of early dental visits for children as young as one or two years old. “These early appointments are valuable educational opportunities for both children and parents, highlighting the numerous benefits of starting dental care early,” he offered. “Pediatric dentistry is a recognized specialty,” he continued. “Parents choose a pediatrician over an internal medicine doctor for their children’s general health needs and now, more than ever, parents are choosing a pediatric dentist for their children’s oral health needs.”

An important aspect of Goodell’s work is empowering families to be actively involved in decisions regarding their child’s care. He prefers not to “tell” parents what to do, but rather to encourage questions and informed decision-making based on open conversations. While he offers his professional recommendations for what would best suit their child, he believes the final treatment decision should rest with the parent. “Education is paramount for making good healthcare decisions,” he stressed.

To mitigate trauma for certain patients, such as those who are ill or have sensory issues, Goodell has hospital privileges at CVPH Medical Center to provide dental care under general anesthesia.

Since opening his office in February of this year Goodell and the Happy Camper staff have visited schools, sponsored poster contests for local elementary students and partnered with the City of Plattsburgh for the Parks Come Alive initiative. “We enjoy being actively involved in the community,” he emphasized.

According to Goodell, the most rewarding part of his job is hearing stories of children who previously had difficult dental experiences but, after visiting his practice, had their perceptions transformed, leading to positive outcomes. “This is why I chose this profession,” he emphasized.

Happy Camper Pediatric Dentistry is dedicated to providing high-quality care for local families. “Dental health is an integral part of the overall health of a child. Healthy teeth allow children to focus in school, maintain good nutrition and grow and develop with confidence. The foundations for a lifetime of good oral health are set in childhood,” he concluded.

Happy Camper Pediatric Dentistry

107 Hammond Lane

Plattsburgh, NY 12901

(518) 565-0828

www.happycamperpd.com