Dr. Aniket Kugaonkar
BDS, MDS (Pedodontics & Preventive Dentistry)
Renowned pediatric dentist with 14+ years of expertise. Famous for his warm, friendly nature that turns anxious children into happy patients.
“Our goal is to build a foundation of trust. We want children to associate the dental clinic with fun, not fear.”
— Dr. Aniket Kugaonkar
Background & Philosophy
Dr. Aniket Kugaonkar is the heart of Smile Avenue's Kids' Dental Hub. With over 14 years of dedicated experience in pediatric dentistry, he has earned a remarkable reputation in Hadapsar and across Pune for his extraordinary ability to connect with children. Parents consistently describe him as 'the doctor who made my child WANT to go to the dentist.' Dr. Kugaonkar's approach is rooted in behavioral psychology — he uses the internationally recognized Tell-Show-Do technique, positive reinforcement, and age-appropriate communication to transform even the most anxious young patient into a willing participant. His clinical expertise spans the full spectrum of pediatric dentistry: from preventive sealants and fluoride applications for toddlers, to complex pulp therapy and space management for pre-teens, to habit-breaking counseling for thumb-sucking and mouth-breathing. He is a passionate advocate for the 'first dental visit by first birthday' philosophy, believing that early intervention and positive dental experiences create a foundation for lifelong oral health.
Education
MDS, Pedodontics & Preventive Dentistry
Government Dental College, Mumbai • 2013
BDS
Government Dental College, Aurangabad • 2010
Areas of Expertise
- Fear-Free Pediatric Dental Care
- Preventive Sealants & Fluoride Therapy
- Pulp Therapy (Pulpotomy/Pulpectomy) for Primary Teeth
- Space Maintainers for Premature Tooth Loss
- Habit-Breaking Counseling & Appliances
- Pediatric Dental Emergencies
- Conscious Sedation (Nitrous Oxide) for Anxious Children
- Infant Oral Health Assessment
Treatments by Kugaonkar
About Dr. Aniket Kugaonkar
At what age should I bring my child to Dr. Aniket?
We recommend the first visit when the first tooth appears, or no later than the first birthday. This early visit establishes a 'dental home' and catches any developmental issues early.
How does Dr. Aniket handle scared children?
He uses the Tell-Show-Do technique — explaining everything in child-friendly language, demonstrating with the instruments, and only then proceeding. For extremely anxious children, conscious sedation (laughing gas) is available.
My child sucks their thumb. Can Dr. Aniket help?
Yes. Dr. Aniket provides habit-breaking counseling and, if needed, custom-made oral appliances that gently discourage thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, and mouth-breathing before they affect jaw development.
Consult with Kugaonkar
Book a personal consultation and take the first step toward the care you deserve.