Imagine a place where children's laughter fills the air, vibrant colors spark joy, and dental visits are met with excitement rather than fear. This is the vision Dr. Chris Halper has brought to life at North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry (NGPD).

From a young age, Dr. Chris Halper always knew he wanted to work with children, making pediatric dentistry a perfect fit. Growing up in a family that assisted with finding foster children adoptive families and his love for sports, which led him to coach multiple teams over the years, shaped his path. These life experiences, coupled with his pediatric training, made working with children and youth comfortable and rewarding. "Being able to positively influence a child in their perception of dentistry or in life, in general, is something that I treasure," shared Dr. Chris.

Dr. Chris' educational journey began in Statesboro, Georgia, at Georgia Southern University, where he met his wife, Amber. He then received his BS degree from Penn State University. After a few years in the pharmaceutical industry, he desired to get back to working with people and chose the dental field. He attended dental school at Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, where he remained to complete a two-year pediatric specialty residency at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. 

Fifteen years ago, Dr. Chris and Amber Halper embarked on a new chapter, moving from Chris's native Philadelphia to Amber's home state of Georgia for Chris to begin his career in pediatric dentistry. After working under local dentists, Dr. Chris established North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry in Braselton in 2011. By 2012, the Halpers moved to Braselton and expanded their practice to a second location in Sugar Hill. Georgia has been more than just a career destination for the Halpers; it's where their family grew with the addition of their three children: Hayden (14), Brooklyn (13), and Cade (6).

Dr. Chris and Amber have worked diligently to fulfill their shared dream of having their own practice and serving the community where they live and work. Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Halper family's ethos. Amber dedicates time to volunteering at Buford Elementary School, and the family supports local charities like Home of Hope and the Boys & Girls Club of Buford. They are also involved in Chestnut Mountain Church, hosting an annual "Breakfast with the Grinch" event.

In March 2017, NGPD moved their Braselton office to 2701 Old Winder Highway. This location boasts a state-of-the-art, modern design that promotes a comfortable experience for both parents and children. The light and airy vibe, with colorful patterns covering the floors and walls, creates an environment that is upbeat and fun. Every dental chair has a flat-screen TV above it, so each child can watch their show of choice. This place was built with the child’s perspective in mind, featuring seven video game stations, a basketball hoop, a life-size Lite Brite, and toddler toys for the little ones. The staff's warmth and friendliness show their adoration for children and love for their jobs. In fact, the environment is so wonderful that some children become upset when it’s time to leave. 

"I enjoy working with all of my patients’ families and building a trust that lasts for years." Dr. Chris shared. "My team and I provide children’s dental care in a way that is comfortable, safe, and fun for the child. I truly love my job as a pediatric dentist and strive to provide an overall positive oral health experience."

Dr. Chris uses technology and provides treatment options to make every visit less intimidating and fun for both the child and parent. Examples include educating children by showing their teeth up-close with an intra-oral camera or taking radiographs without placing any film inside the mouth, accommodating those with gag reflexes. 

The practice has grown and prospered with the addition of two doctors. Dr. Esther completed her dental training at Boston University, her pediatric dental residency at Children’s of Alabama and the University of Alabama, and her extensive training with the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) at Civitan Sparks Center. Dr. Haj graduated with a D.M.D degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, completed her residency at Stony Brook University Hospital, and her postgraduate Pediatric Dental training at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

Even with this growth, Dr. Chris stays true to his vision of creating a practice that offers a ‘small-office experience’ which is what sets them apart. Promising to deliver the time and attention that you and your child deserve, Dr. Chris has built this practice on the principle of “Would this be a place that he would want to bring his own children to?” North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry focuses on both the patient and parent experience and strives to surpass expectations to ensure each visit is happy and memorable.

The Halper family enjoys building relationships with families and kids they share life with while providing a valuable service to the community. Living in Braselton and being close to work allows them to help and serve the area in many ways, especially in dental emergencies. They look forward to serving their community for many years to come.

For more information, visit the North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry website at www.StartLifeSmiling.com, or contact them at 770-965-2340. 

“I am so excited to welcome you and your child to North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry. As a father myself, I understand how difficult it is to trust someone else with your child. On a daily basis, I am trusted by parents just like you to care for their children and keep their children’s smiles healthy. I treat my patients as if they are my own children.” - Dr. Chris Halper