Tips to Help Keep Tiny Teeth Healthy

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Did you know that tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases in kids?  

Fortunately, there is good news!  New studies have shown a decline in the number of young children with tooth decay.  

These tips can help keep tiny teeth healthy!

Tips for a Healthy Smile:

• Drink More Water - Feeling thirsty?  Reach for a glass of water rather than soda or an energy drink!  Not only will water help you feel more hydrated, but the sugar in sweetened sods and sports drinks can cause cavities.
• Wear a Mouth Guard - Did you know that more than 200,000 mouth and jaw injuries occur each year?  If your kids are active in spring sports, remind them to wear a mouth guard!  Mouth guards help protect teeth while they play.
• Maintain Healthy Habits - Kids are always on the go.  Provide healthy snacks and keep a travel-sized toothbrush in their locker or backpack!
• Apply Dental Sealants - Sealants are clear or shaded plastic coverings that help protect your teeth from cavities and reduce the risk of tooth decay!  Contact our office if you would like to schedule an appointment for your child.

Read more about keeping tiny teeth healthy here.

If you are in need of dental care, you can always contact our office.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.  Don’t forget to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and check out our YouTube channel!

Baby Teeth Tips for a Healthy Smile

 Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Source: Flickr

Parents – you want to keep your child’s smile healthy.  That’s why it’s so important to start teaching good habits early!  Although baby teeth are temporary, they play a big role in your child’s development and oral health.  Here are a few things that you can do to make sure that your child grows up with a healthy, cavity-free smile.

Baby Teeth Tips:

• Early Care – You should schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday.  Preventative care can save you money and keep your child’s teeth healthy.
• Develop Habits – Help your child develop brushing and flossing habits from a young age.  Even before teeth come in gums should be cleaned with a soft washcloth.
• Drinking – Sipping on juice all day is bad for teeth.  It leaves plenty of time for sugars to eat away at the enamel.  Instead, let your kids sip on water.  Avoid baby bottle decay by filling a bottle with water before they go to bed.
• Binky – A pacifier is great for putting infants to sleep.  However, parents should wean their children off once they reach 2 or 3 years old.
• Medication – Children with chronic conditions like asthma have a higher tooth decay rate.  Certain medications like antibiotics can cause oral thrush.  Children with long-term medications should brush more frequently.

Read more oral health care tips here.  If you have any questions about how you can better care for your child’s teeth, give us a call!  Contact our Garden City office by calling 516-222-5100 or our Glen Cove office by calling 516-759-7000.  We are happy to help you care for all of your child's smile needs.

The Truth About Fluoride

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Hey, parents. Are you unsure about the importance that fluoride plays in your child’s oral health? We’re here to help!

Here are a few fluoride FAQ answered. If you have any additional questions or concerns, give us a call at either one of our locations at any time.

How does fluoride work?

When the element fluoride is used in small amounts on a routine basis it helps to prevent tooth decay. It encourages “remineralization” a strengthening of weak areas on the teeth. These spots are the beginning of cavity formation. Fluoride occurs naturally in water and in many different foods, as well as in dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, varnish and supplements. Fluoride is effective when combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.

Will my child need fluoride supplements?

Children between the ages of six months and 16 years may require fluoride supplements. The pediatric dentist considers many different factors before recommending a fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and the different liquids your child drinks are important considerations. Bottled, filtered and well waters vary in their fluoride amount, so a water analysis may be necessary to ensure your child is receiving proper amount.

How safe is fluoride?

Fluoride is documented to be safe and highly effective. Research indicates water fluoridation, the most cost effective method, has decreased the decay rate by over 50%. Only small amounts of fluoride are necessary for the maximum benefit. Proper toothpaste amount may be supervised, and other forms of fluoride supplementations must be carefully monitored in order to prevent a potential overdose and unsightly spots on the developing permanent teeth. Do not leave toothpaste tubes where young children can reach them. The flavors that help encourage them to brush may also encourage them to eat toothpaste.