What is Carbonic Acid and How Does it Affect Your Children's Teeth?

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

What is carbonic acid and how does it affect your teeth? 

Carbonic acid is a weak acid created when carbon dioxide is dissolved in water, forming the inorganic compound H2CO3. The compound is found in soft drinks, inexpensive and artificially carbonated sparkling wines and bubbly drinks. 

During the making of soft drinks like Coca Cola and Pepsi, carbon dioxide is dissolved in water, creating carbonic acid. This acid, along with phosphoric acid and other acids, provides the “tart” taste and the “burning sensation” that a person feels when ingesting a fizzy drink.

When the pH levels in your mouth reach 5.2 or below, the enamel of teeth is dissolved. Considering the high levels of acidity found in soft drinks, the pH levels go well below 5.2, dissolving teeth enamel. Over time, the acid dissolves the calcium in your teeth leaving behind a cavity.

Parents are usually worried about their children’s consumption of sugar and never stop to think about carbonic acid.  Generally speaking, it’s better to drink a beverage that is neutral to slightly alkaline. The best pH for the mouth is neutral or slightly higher than neutral pH. This pH in the mouth makes it less hospitable for the bacteria that cause cavities. Water is the best option.

Are your children in danger of dissolving enamel and cavities? Do they drink soft drinks, sports drinks, juices and bubbly drink often? If so, schedule an appointment with Dr. Reynolds at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City today to go over some options to put your child on a healthy oral health path.

Ensure Optimal Oral Health During Halloween With These Helpful Tips

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Halloween is right around the corner, and with Halloween comes candy! Take a few minutes to go over these kid-friendly candy tips to ensure optimal oral health during this sugary holiday! 

Most parents worry about tooth decay and cavities from all the candy consumption surrounding Halloween. To avoid negative impacts from candy, encourage children to avoid excessive consumption of these sugary treats and lessen the amount of time the sugar is present in your child’s mouth. 

• After inspecting all Halloween candy, it is OK for your child to eat a few pieces! To help lessen the chance for tooth decay and cavities, have them brush as soon as possible after eating the candy. If a child brushes right after, the impact of the candy on the teeth is minimal. If brushing soon after is not possible, have your child rinse his or her mouth out with water, or chew a sugarless gum after snacking on the candy. The increased saliva from chewing will help wash the sugar off the teeth and xylitol gum helps control the bacterium that causes tooth decay.

• Avoid sticky candy such as taffy, gummy bears, caramel, etc. A sticky candy adheres to children’s teeth and causes decay. Encouraging your child to eat the candy quickly in one sitting decreased the amount of time it is contact with their teeth. Therefore, also avoid eating any candy slowly over an extended period of time like hard candies, breath mints, sucking candies and lollipops.

• Kids can eat candy anytime during the day; there is no “goodtime” of the day or night to eat candy. Consuming candy with a meal, though, helps wash the sweet off the teeth due to increase saliva production.

• Prior to Halloween, visit Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City to have sealants put into your child’s teeth grooves.

• Avoid sugary sodas and juices. They are loaded with sugar; are acidic enough to dissolve away tooth enamel; and are often sipped for long periods of time, resulting in teeth that being bathed with sugar and acid almost continuously throughout the day. Yuck!

Dr. Stacey Reynolds at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City is taking part in the Halloween Candy Buy-Back Program this sweet season. Children are asked to sell their Halloween Candy to us so we can send it to our troops overseas! 

Earning cash for candy is a healthy and rewarding alternative for children during Halloween. Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City will “buy” back kids Halloween candy on Tuesday, November 1^st from 4:00-6:00pm at their office. Dr. Reynolds will pay $1 per pound (up to 10 pounds) for your unopened candy. The collected Halloween Candy will be given to Operation Gratitude, who will then send the candy to our troops overseas. 

Encouraging your children to donate some of their Halloween candy will not only keep their teeth healthy, but they’ll be putting a smile on the faces of US Soldiers overseas. 

For more information, call Dr. Reynolds at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City at 516-222-5100 or visit www.PDofGC.com.

Everything You Need To Know About Fluoride!

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound that can help prevent dental decay. Fluoride protects teeth in two ways, systematically and topically. During tooth formation, ingested fluorides become incorporated into tooth structure. Fluorides ingested regularly during the time when teeth are developing are deposited throughout the entire tooth surface and provide long-lasting protection that those applied topically (American Dental Association).

Fluoride encouraged “remineralization,” a strengthening of weak areas on the teeth. These spots are the beginning formations of every child’s biggest nightmare, a cavity! 

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.

Children between the ages of six month and 16 years old 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.

To ensure your child is getting the proper amount of fluoride from dental products, use toothpaste with fluoride that has the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. Young children, especially pre-school aged children, should not swallow toothpaste! Use only a small, pea-sized amount of the brush.  Careful supervision during brushing time is required, if not monitored; children may easily swallow over four times the recommended daily amount of fluoride in toothpaste.

If you fear your child isn’t getting the sufficient amount of fluoride daily, schedule an appointment with Dr. Reynolds at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City.  Dr. Reynolds specializes in pediatric dentistry and works hard to help kids develop lasting dental health habits that give them smiles they can be proud of for a lifetime. She also specializes in treating children with special needs. 

The Importance of Infant Oral Health

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

You’re probably thinking, “What dental problems could a baby possibly have so early?”  The most important reason to bring your infant in for an oral exam is to begin a thorough prevention program.

Dental problems can begin early – as early as infancy. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries, formerly known as “baby bottle tooth decay” or “nursing caries.” Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems.

To prevent tooth decay from using a bottle, don’t allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Frequent juice drinking is not recommended. If you choose to give your child fruit juice here and there, avoid serving it via bottle. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time, if at all, and never in a bottle. Children should be weaned off a bottle completely between 12 and 14 months of age.

From six months to age 3, your child may have tender gums when teeth erupt bringing you through the “teething” stages. Many children like a clean teething ring, cool spoon or cold wet washcloth. Some parents swear by a chilled ring; others simply rub the baby’s gums with a clean finger. Regardless of how, address this time with care and patience! 

Is your child a thumb-sucker? Don’t be alarmed! Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants, and usually stops the habit by age 2. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems, so if the habit continues beyond age 3, a professional evaluation is recommended. Dr. Reynolds at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City would be happy to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.

It’s never too early to brush your baby’s teeth. The sooner you start cleaning your baby’s teeth, the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a “smear” or toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For 2-5 year olds, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child at brushing time. Remember, young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively! 

Fore more information on infant oral health, visit www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com or call Dr. Reynolds office at 516-222-5100. Dr. Reynolds specializes in pediatric dentistry and works hard to help kids develop lasting dental health habits that give them smiles they can be proud of for a lifetime. She also specializes in treating children withspecial needs. 

Call to schedule an appointment today!

Apple Picking: A Fun Family Fall Activity!

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

As the leaves start changing color and falling from the trees, and that autumn chill fills the air, plan a trip to your local apple orchard with your family! 

Apple picking is a great family fall activity for those looking to enjoy a fun fall outing outdoors. Apples are one of the easiest fruits to pick, and most modern apple orchards have made it even easier with dwarf trees so children can pick their own apples! Apple picking season runs through the end of October, so you have a few weekends left to plan your day trip! 

Farmers will know which trees bloomed and ripened first in their orchard, so don’t be hesitant to ask some questions! Apples come in a variety of colors, from green to yellow, pink to red and even orange! If you see any markings on the apple, leave it behind. Only choose apples that are firm, ripe and bruise-free. Each orchard harvests different types of apples, so ask the farmer which apples you’re picking and the characteristics to look for based on the types of apple they have available at their farm.

When it’s time to actually take the apple off the tree, keep these simple tips in mind! Don’t pull the apple directly off the branch, or shake the tree to free apples. Instead, gently roll the apple off the branch and place it into your bag or basket. Pulling the apple or shaking the tree can cause bruising, decreasing their shelf-life.

Apple orchards often have other fall activities aside from apple picking for you and your family to enjoy. From hay rides, to corn mazes and pumpkin patches to pony rides, it will definitely be a day full of memories. Don’t forget your camera!

Once you’ve have a full day of apple picking, put your apples in a cool location, like a garage or pantry, and don’t wash them until just before using them. When kept cool, fresh picked apples can last up to 2 full weeks! 

Apples are a wonderful treat for kids and adults! They can be eaten in a variety of ways like fresh off the tree, cooked canned, frozen, baked into pies or crushed into sauces and jams! 

And, the best part is that apples have many health benefits, including ones for your pearly whites! Biting and chewing an apple stimulates the production of saliva in your mouth, reducing tooth decay by lowering the levels of bacteria in your mouth! So, every time you and your children bite into an apple, you’re taking steps towards keeping a healthy smile!

So gather up your kids and plan an autumn adventure at a local apple orchard! Not only are you spending time with your family, you are teaching them to make healthy choices! Apples are a healthy snack option, as opposed to chips, cakes, cookies and candy bars. Kids will love taking the apples they’ve picked to school as a snack, and share their story of picking it themselves!

For a list of Long Island Apple Orchards, click here.

A Sweet Way to Make Everyone Smile: The Halloween Candy Buy-Back Program. Earn cash for candy!

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

 

Dr. Reynolds and Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City are taking part in the Halloween Candy Buy-Back Program this sweet season, asking patients to sell their Halloween Candy to us so we can send it to our troops overseas!

How does the program work? You get to earn cash for candy! Pediatric Dentistry of GardenCity will “buy” back kids’ Halloween candy on Tuesday, November 1^st from 4:00-6:00pm at their office.  Dr. Reynolds will pay $1 per pound (up to 10 pounds) for your unopened candy. 

Next, Dr. Reynolds and Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City will send the candy to Operation Gratitude, who then send the candy to the US Military deployed overseas. 

The Halloween Candy Buy-Back Program is a sweet way to make everyone smile- a healthy smile! Too much candy can make your teeth develop lots of cavities! Donating some of your Halloween candy will not only help keep your teeth healthy, but you’ll make the US troops overseas smile when they receive something sweet! 

For more information, call Dr. Reynolds at PediatricDentistry of Garden City at 516-222-5100 or visit www.PDofGC.com.

Meet Dr. Stacey Reynolds, Pediatric Dentist at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

 

Dr. Stacey Reynolds is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist. She received her Bachelor’s degree cum laude, from Boston University in 1995 with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry.  Dr. Stacey received her dental degree from Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in 1999 and immediately obtained her specialty certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine after graduating. While obtaining her specialty certificate in Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Stacey held the position of Chief Resident.

 

Dr. Stacey has been in private practice in the greater New York area including Long Island. Currently, she teaches dental students and pediatric dental residents at Columbia University once a week where she holds an academic position as Assistant Clinical Professor of Dentistry. 

A New York native, Dr. Stacey is thrilled to be back home after a brief trip out west. In 2007, Dr. Stacey and her husband, John Schmidt, moved to Arizona looking for outdoor adventure and a Southwest lifestyle while working with the Indian Health Service treating under-served pediatric patients on the Navajo Reservation. Soon after arriving in Northern Arizona, Dr. Stacey and John found out they were about to start a family of their own, and quickly returned home before the birth of her daughter, Kelly. Today, Dr. Reynolds and her husband have two children, Kelly and Thomas.

Dr. Stacey is affiliated with the Board of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association and the Nassau County Dental Society. 

Schedule an appointment today to meet Dr. Stacey in person at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City by calling 516-222-5100! PediatricDentistry of Garden City is located on Stewart Avenue in Garden City. For more information, visit www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com.

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City is Now LIVE on Social Media!

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City

585 Stewart Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530

516-222-5100 

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com 

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City, a pediatric specialist, is now involved in Social Media. You can now “Like” us on Facebook; “Follow” us on Twitter, “Check-In” on Foursquare, view our photos on Flickr and stay connected to our latest news, tips and healthy teeth care, right here on the Pediatric Dentistry blog.

Pediatric Dentistry is passionate about kids! We work hard to help kids develop lasting dental health habits that give them smiles they can be proud of for a lifetime. 

Pediatric Dentistry is the specialty of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and unique needs of young people. Good oral health is an important part of total health and well-being. Establishing us as you “dental home” provides us the opportunity to implement preventive dental health habits that keep a child free from dental/oral disease. 

At Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City, we focus on prevention, early detection and treatment of dental diseases, and keep current on the latest advances in dentistry for children. 

Bringing your child to the dentist for the first time can be a daunting task. Pleasant visits to the dental office promote the establishment of trust and confidence in your child that will last a lifetime. Our goal, along with our staff, is to help all children feel good about visiting the dentist and team them how to care for their teeth. From our special office designs, to our communication style, our main concern is what’s best for your child.

It’s never too early for a visit! The American Academy of Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday. As a pediatric specialist,Dr. Stacey is well-acquainted with the limited attention spans of little ones. The first thorough, but quick examination allows for early detection and prevention of dental problems and provides valuable information to support good oral care habits at home.

PediatricDentistry of Garden City is located at 585 Stewart Avenue in Garden City, New York. To schedule an appointment, call 516-222-5100. For more information, visit the Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City website linked here. 

Don’t forget to follow us on all social media outlets linked above! For more information, visit www.pediatricdentistryofgardencity.com, and explore the website including contact information, an office tour, FAQS, information and more.