Meet Dr. Mary Weber.

Pediatric Dental Specialists is thrilled to introduce a new pediatric dentist to our team, Dr. Mary Weber. Dr. Mary is set to join our Omaha practice in January 2024, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her on board. In this blog post, we’ll help you get to know her better, learn about her passion for pediatric dentistry, and discover what sets her apart as a dedicated dentist for children.

A Little Bit of Background

Dr. Mary brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to pediatric dentistry. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Nebraska Lincoln before embarking on her journey in dental education. She earned her dental degree and completed her pediatric dental residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. 

A Passion for Dentistry

Dr. Mary’s own positive childhood dental experiences inspired her journey into dentistry. “To be honest, I loved going to the dentist growing up, and I knew I wanted to work in health care, so it seemed like the perfect fit!” she shared.

She realized early on that she wanted to make a difference in health care and found her calling in pediatric dentistry after shadowing at a pediatric dental office during her undergraduate years. Her passion for helping children and creating lasting relationships with families is at the core of her dental philosophy.

The Joy of Treating Kids Through Pediatric Dentistry 

One of the things Dr. Mary loves most about her job is working with children. Their boundless enthusiasm and rapid development make every day in the clinic an exciting adventure. “Kids are truly the best! I love the joy and excitement they bring into our lives. It’s amazing watching them grow and learn new things in such a short time,” she shared enthusiastically.

As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Mary finds immense reward in helping children overcome their fears and complete necessary treatments, all while ensuring they leave with a smile.

Favorite Advancements in Dentistry

Dr. Mary enjoys staying up to date with the latest advancements in pediatric dentistry. One technique she finds particularly fascinating is the Hall crown technique. This minimally invasive crown method is perfect for young children or those with dental anxiety, providing full coverage restoration with minimal discomfort.

More specifically, the British Dental Journal explains that this technique involves the utilization of preformed metal crowns, typically made of stainless steel, to address decay in primary molar teeth. This method entails placing a properly sized crown over the affected tooth and sealing the decayed area with glass ionomer luting cement.

Regarding dental anxiety, Dr. Mary believes communication and interaction are key for children who fear the dentist. She encourages parents to maintain a positive attitude about dental visits and make oral hygiene fun at home with songs and books.

Combating Harmful Dental Trends With Preventive Dentistry

Dr. Mary is a firm believer in preventive care, and one trend she finds concerning is the avoidance of treatments like dental sealants. “Research shows that most decay in school-age children occurs in the deep grooves of teeth, and sealants are effective in preventing cavities,” she said.

Dr. Mary is committed to educating parents and patients about the importance of these preventive dental measures. That said, if you’re a parent who has delayed dental visits for your child due to guilt or anxiety, Dr. Mary wants you to know there’s no judgment here. Her primary goal is to offer support to families and to help them make positive changes for their child’s oral health.

Diet Matters

One crucial aspect of oral health that Dr. Weber wishes all parents and children knew is the impact of diet and food choices. Good oral hygiene practices are essential, but what we eat and drink plays a significant role in overall dental health.

To that end, per guidance from the ADA (American Dental Association), numerous nutritious foods contribute to the strength of your teeth and assist in the natural removal of bacteria and acid from your oral cavity. Even if dietary restrictions such as allergies or sensitivities limit your choices, there remain plenty of alternative options:

• Yogurt and various cheeses
• Carrots, celery, and leafy greens
• Apples
• Black and green teas
• Lean sources of protein
• Various types of nuts

Busting Dental Myths

Dr. Mary is on a mission to debunk the myth that dentists cause pain and discomfort. In reality, preventive and restorative treatments prevent dental pain and discomfort and ensure your child’s comfort and well-being.

Further, Dr. Mary’s guiding philosophy centers around prevention. She emphasizes the importance of early visits to establish good oral hygiene practices and diet choices. While addressing existing issues is vital, long-term success lies in preventing future problems.

Beyond Dentistry

Beyond the dental chair, Dr. Mary enjoys exploring her interests. She recently picked up pickleball, a fun and active pastime she enjoys with her husband and friends on weekends.

Dr. Mary Weber’s Magical Dental Wish

If Dr. Mary had a magical-powered dental tool, it would be a toothbrush that magically brushes away cavities and dental pain. The tooth fairy would surely approve!

At Pediatric Dental Specialists, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Mary Weber to our Omaha team. Her dedication to pediatric dentistry, commitment to patient care, and passion for making every child’s dental visit a positive experience aligns perfectly with our mission. 

We look forward to introducing her to our patients and their families in January 2024. Stay tuned for more updates, and get ready to experience a new level of compassionate and expert dental care for your children. Your child’s bright smile is in excellent hands with Dr. Mary!