The Peru Gazette

In a community popular with young families, pediatric dentistry seems like a perfect fit. Dr. Lacombe-Senecal described the role of a pediatric dentist stating, “Just like you would bring your child to a pediatrician we are like a pediatrician for a child’s mouth. We specialize in all aspects of pediatric dentistry from growth and development to behavior management. We see children from birth to 18. For example, we might see an infant if they’re having trouble with nursing, like latching. We work closely with the lactation clinic at CVPH and with pediatricians in the area.” Both dentists have CVPH privileges and see patients there.

Dr. Chris Goodell graduated from Plattsburgh High School. He earned an undergraduate degree at North Carolina State University and post graduate degrees in dentistry from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Colleen Lacombe-Senecal graduated from Seton Catholic. She earned an undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester and post graduate degrees in dentistry at the University of Buffalo.

Why did they they return to the North Country? Dr. Goodell commented, “We’re both from this area. We grew up here and we’re happy to be living here again. We can provide local care for kids.” The doctors said some pediatric dentists rotate into local dentist practices from outside the area, but to the best of their knowledge they are the only pediatric dentists who reside in this area.

Both said they chose pediatric dentistry because they enjoy working with children and adolescents. Dr. Lacombe-Senecal and her husband Adam have three children ages 5, 3 and 4 months. Dr. Goodell is married and doesn’t have any children yet. Dr. Lacombe-Senecal commented, “He does have a puppy and he’s a great uncle.”

Lakeshore Pediatric Dentistry is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 518-282-5519 to make an appointment.