Newton-Sparta/Kidz World Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Michael Lateiner, DMD; Bernadette Lapena, DDS

Specialty: Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Nominated as a New Jersey Family Favorite Kids’ Doc for 12 years, Dr. Michael Lateiner treats children and teens in two modern, vibrant themed offices with a welcoming atmosphere and all the bells and whistles. Kid-friendly TVs, an Xbox, tablets and touch-screen games help patients feel at home.

In addition to its regular cleaning and sterilization techniques, the practice is following and exceeding COVID safety guidelines including HEPA air filtration, UV lights, office fogging and ADS extraoral suction.

Enjoyable Dental Visits

Dr. Mike works alongside pediatric dentists Drs. Bernadette Lapena, Ami Dhaduk, Peter Paradiso, Tina Park and orthodontists Drs. Kevin Lehnes and Blair Sittmann in Newton and Dr. Denise Kitay in Cedar Knolls. At Newton-Sparta Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, patients receive treatment in a colorful jungle-themed office. At Kidz World, patients can hop into a hot air balloon in the waiting room and travel to London, Paris or China in one of the office’s travel-themed treatment rooms.

“We try to keep everything fresh and new to ensure kids enjoy their experience with us,” says Dr. Lateiner, a father of three. “Whether it’s our fish tank, bubble wall or video games, patients are excited to come in and see what’s new in the office.”

Comfortable, Pain-Free Treatments

Dr. Lateiner uses state-of-the-art technology in both offices to help make visits comfortable and pain-free, including digital impressions and X-rays, as well as bitewing images taken from outside the mouth.

“We’re happiest when a once fearful patient leaves with a smile,” he says. “We pride ourselves on offering compassionate care and making sure that kids always come first.”

On staff at Morristown Medical Center, Dr. Lateiner graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University and received his DMD from UMDNJ, where he earned his specialty in pediatric dentistry and MS in dentistry.