Healthy Breakfasts for National Nutrition Month

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

March is National Nutrition Month!  What better way to celebrate than by starting off the month with healthy breakfast recipes for good for growing kids and their teeth!  Leave sugary-cereals behind and try one of these healthy breakfast options.

Healthy Breakfast Recipes:

Breakfast Parfait

Choose a yogurt that is low in sugar and add some fruit!  This is a great way to start your day with a meal that is high in vitamins that are good for your teeth.'

Apple Oatmeal

Cook apples into your morning oatmeal for a breakfast that is full of flavor, but not sugar.  Many flavored oatmeals can taste too sweat!  The extra crunch from the apples are good for your teeth, too.

Blueberry Muffins

Muffins are a great breakfast option for kids on the go.  Use whole-wheat flour and flax seeds for added nutrients!  Check out the recipe here.

Check out this article from Eating Well magazine for more healthy breakfast ideas.  If you have any questions about how you can improve your child's oral health, 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!

Family Fun Events on Long Island This Weekend

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?  There are plenty of family-friendly activities happening across Long Island.  Here are a few of the top picks!

Turtle Hatch Day

Families can watch the teaching of the baby turtles with refreshments and crafts.

Where: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery and Aquarium

When: Saturday, 10am-3pm

Price: $6 Adults, $4 Kids Ages 3-12, Free for Kids 3 and Younger

Riverhead Railroad Festival

Learn about Long Island’s railroad history.  This year’s festival celebrates he LIRR G-16 Park Train that appeared 50 years ago at New York’s World Fair.

Where: Railroad Museum of Long Island

When: Saturday and Sunday, 10am-4pm

Price: $8 Adults, $4 Ages 5-12, Free For Kids Younger Than 5

Big Apple Circus

This popular circus has horses, acrobats, and clowns.

Where: John Drew Theater at Guild Hall

When: Sunday at 5:30 pm

Price: $50 and $75

Read more about the fun family events going on this weekend in Newsday. 

Remember, you can contact Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove with any questions you have about your child’s smile health this weekend.  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!

What is a Cavity?

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Childhood tooth decay is unfortunately common.  Many liquids that kids drink are high in sugar, including milk, formula and fruit juices.  With biannual dental visits, we can keep an eye on problem spots and remove plaque before a cavity develops.  This is a great way to keep teeth healthy and strong!

Common Cavity Symptoms:

• Temperature Sensitivity
• Nighttime Pain
• Restlessness
• Toothache
• Sensitivity to Spicy Foods

If your child is experiencing any of these common symptoms, contact our office.  At Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove, we can provide your child with a dental cleaning, exam, and set of x-rays to identify any cavities early on.  We can also offer brushing, flossing, and nutrition tips to help keep your child’s smile healthy for a long time to come!  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!

photo credit: Finizio via photopin cc

Understanding Bruxism in Children

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Does your child grind their teeth during the night?  This behavior is common in children as their baby teeth and permanent teeth grow in.  However, teeth grinding or clenching, also known as Bruxism, can cause jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and headaches.

Here are a few ways to help prevent teeth grinding:

• Night Guards – This dental appliance helps to relieve pressure and keep the tooth enamel intact.  While most younger kids do not need night guards, it can help prevent TMJ in older children whose permanent teeth have grown in.
• Relaxing – Stress, tension and anger can all trigger teeth grinding.  Have your child relax before bed so that they feel more at ease while asleep.
• Exercises – Certain massages and stretches can help alleviate tension in the body.  This is particularly beneficial for jaw muscles that cause tension headaches.
• Stay Hydrated – Make sure that your child is drinking plenty of water.  Dehydration may be linked to teeth grinding. 

While most children outgrow the behavior, teeth grinding can wear down permanent teeth.  If you notice your child is grinding their teeth, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove.  We can discuss Bruxism and how we can help relieve any sensitivity associated with the tooth grinding.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

Getting to Know Dr. Stacey Reynolds

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

At Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove, Dr. Stacey Reynolds works hard to give kids smiles that they can be proud of for a lifetime.  Through this brief interview, we invite parents to learn more about Dr. Stacey's dental experiences and what makes her so passionate about helping kids develop lasting dental health habits!

1. When did you decide that you wanted to become a pediatric dentist?  Why?
During my 3rd year of dental school we were encouraged to pursue a specialty.  Pediatrics made sense for me and I was highly encouraged by one of my Deans at the dental school.  He said I wouldn't regret it and he was right!

2. Where did you receive your degree/training from?

Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (Dental School) and Albert Einstein/Montefiore Medical Center for my pediatric specialty training.

3. What is the biggest challenge that you encounter as a pediatric dentist?

Despite popular belief, it's not the children!!!

4. What part of your job do you find the most satisfying?

I entered this specialty because I knew I could make a difference in the way that children and people live their lives.  I'm a preventative person by nature and I'm passionate about whole body health and well being.  I see children grow up to be adults who do not fear the dentist.

5. What is your most memorable experience on the job?

My most memorable experiences are actually my teaching experiences.  I teach once a week at Columbia University in their Residency Program.  I form bonds year after year with the residents thatI help to train and I feel like I have a huge circle of friends/colleagues int he field.  We are constantly learning from each other.

6. What do you like to do when you're not in the office?

Sleep!!!  I have 3 young kids.  Seriously, we love to travel.  My husband and I try to remain active and encourage the kids to be active.  We like to run races sometimes for fun.

7.  What is your favorite book/movie/TV show?

Catcher in the Rye.  Dumb and Dumber.  I'm not married to any particular TV show, but I can't survive without my Showtime and HBO series.  

Visit our website to learn more about Dr. Stacey Reynolds and the services offered at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove.  You can also call 516-222-5100 to schedule an appointment for your child at our Garden City practice or 516-759-7000 to schedule an appointment at our Glen Cove office.

Interview with Dr. Stacey Reynolds of Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Dr. Stacey Reynolds of Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City and Glen Cove shares her credentials, and gives some info on both of her dental practices in Nassau County. For more information, please visit us on the web - http://www.pdofgc.com 

Visit us at both of our convenient Long Island locations - 

Garden City - 585 Stewart Avenue Suite LL60, Garden City, NY 11530 
and
Glen Cove - 10 Cedar Swamp Road Suite 2, Glen Cove, NY 11542

Add us on -

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PediatricDen...
Twitter - https://twitter.com/LIPedDentistry
Google+ - https://plus.google.com/1156021665068...

Music - "Happy Alley" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Fuss-Free Brushing Tips

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

It’s not always easy to get your kids to brush their teeth.  Some kids even put up a fight!  Here are a few tips and tricks that will help get your kids to enjoy brushing their teeth.

Tips and Tricks:

• Flavored Toothpaste – Pick a flavor that your kids will love!  If mint is too strong, try a fruity flavor.
• Perfect Toothbrush – There are so many different styles, colors, and character themed toothbrushes.  Electric toothbrushes are also a great option. Let your kids pick out their favorite one!
• Brush Together – Little kids like to be just like their parents.  Brushing with mom or dad can make the process more enjoyable.
• Music – Play a song while your kids brush their teeth.  It can even be a game to brush for the full length of the song.  If you are musically inclined, you can sing the song yourself!
• Multitask – Sometimes children need to be distracted in order to sneak in brushing time.  Brushing while they are in the bathtub can help while they are distracted with playing and splashing around.

For more brushing tips, visit this website.  You can also contact our office, Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove, for more information on how to better care for your child’s oral health.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

Beware of These "Healthy" Snacks That Are Bad for Teeth

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

When you reach for a healthy snack, you probably think about the fat content, calories, and nutritional value.  However, many of the snacks that we consider healthy are actually bad for your teeth.  Here are a few “healthy” snacks that can be bad for your smile.

Beware of these “healthy” snacks:

• Smoothies and Fruit Juices – While they contain a lot of vitamins, these drinks can also be very high in sugar and acid.  Some contain more sugar than soda!  If you give fruit juice to your kids, dilute the juice and only offer it during meals. 
• Dried Fruit – Although natural sugars are better for you than refined sugar, they can still cause tooth decay if snacked on frequently.  Whether you are snacking on raisins or caramels, these sugary and sticky snacks can cling to your teeth for a long time.  Try fresh fruit or vegetable sticks instead!
• Cereal Bars – Many cereals contain a lot of sugar to boost the flavor.  Remember to read your labels!
• Yogurt – Many flavored yogurts are low in fat, but contain a lot of sugar.  Add fresh fruit to low fat natural or Greek yogurt to add flavor instead.

Read more about bad snacking habits on MSN. 

Contact Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove for more healthy smile tips or to schedule your child’s bi-annual cleaning and exam.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

Don’t Make These Common Oral Hygiene Mistakes

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Good oral health habits are essential for all parents and kids.  However, many people don’t always go about their smile cleaning routines properly.  Are you making any of these common oral hygiene mistakes?

Oral Hygiene Mistakes:

• Brushing for Too Long – You should always brush your teeth thoroughly, but brushing them too roughly or for too long can actually be bad for your gums and tooth enamel.  We recommend brushing for two minutes!
• Brushing After Meals – You should wait about 30 minutes before brushing your teeth after eating.  This gives your saliva time to neutralize any acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth.
• Hard Bristled Toothbrushes – Choose a toothbrush with a soft bristles and don’t forget to replace it every three months or when it becomes worn.
• Forgetting to Floss – So many of us forget about the importance of flossing every day.  Most plaque actually builds in areas your toothbrush can’t reach, in between your teeth.
• Poor Diet – Drinking water, avoiding sweets that dissolve slowly in your mouth, and staying away from foods high in starch are all good habits for healthy teeth.
• Avoiding Check-Ups – Bi-annual cleanings are one of the best ways to keep your mouth healthy and your teeth free of decay.  An exam can help identify any problems before they begin to seriously affect your smile health.

Contact Pediatric Dentistry ofGarden City & Glen Cove for more tips on how you can improve your smile care or to schedule your child’s bi-annual cleaning and exam.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

How to Choose the Best Toothbrush

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Toothbrushes come in all different kinds of shapes, sizes and colors.  While some factors play a role in how well you are brushing, others do not.  Here are a few tips to help you choose the best toothbrush for your smile health.

Choosing a Toothbrush:

Source: Flickr

• Shape – Any toothbrush can be effective if you are using the right technique.  However, there are certain shapes that may be better than others.  Round, rotating heads are best for electric brushes and manual brushes with tapered heads are best for people with narrow jaws.
• Size – The perfect sized toothbrush will allow you to comfortably clean all the way around your last top molar.  Toothbrushes that are too big or too small can miss plaque in tight spots and hard-to-reach areas.
• Bristles – Always choose bristles that are soft.  Hard toothbrushes can irritate your gums, causing bleeding and even gum recession.
• Handle – The shape and size of your toothbrush handle has no effect on how well you brush.  However, you may find certain toothbrushes to be more comfortable to hold than others.

Don’t forget to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed.  Contact Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove with any questions you have about yours or your child’s toothbrush.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

April is National Facial Protection Month

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

National Facial Protection Month brings awareness to the head, mouth and facial injuries that often result from sports-related accidents each spring.  With outdoor spring sports just around the corner, we want to remind parents and kids to play safely.  We recommend that all kids who play contact sports wear mouth guards to keep their faces protected.  

How do you know if your kid needs a mouth guard? 

Kids should wear mouth guards when playing:

• Hockey
• Basketball
• Soccer
• Football
• Gymnastics
• Baseball
• Tennis

By wearing a mouth guard, you reduce the risk of knocking out teeth or breaking your jaw.  If your child plays a sport, contact Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove for more information on mouth guards and how they can protect your child’s smile.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

Teeth Grinding in Children

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

There are a number of reasons why your child might grind or clench their teeth.  This condition, known as Bruxism, generally occurs during the night or when kids are stressed.  It affects at least 20 percent of children and it is more commonly found in kids who have ADHD, behavioral problems, and cerebral palsy.

Here are a few of the problems associated with teeth grinding:

• Headaches
• Earaches
• Soreness
• Facial Pain
• Worn Down Tooth Enamel
• Chipped Teeth
• Temperature Sensitivity

We invite you to learn more about kid’s dental health here.  

If your child grinds or clenches their teeth, be sure to schedule an appointment at Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City &Glen Cove.  We can help determine the cause of the grinding and provide ways to reduce tooth pressure.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

Permanent Tooth Care Tips

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Kids start to lose their baby teeth when they are around 6 or 7 years old.  During this exciting time, they need to learn how to care for their new teeth.  Here are a few things for parents to keep in mind as their kid’s permanent teeth grow in.

5 Tips to Care for Permanent Teeth:

Source: Flickr

• Use a soft toothbrush with a pea-sized dab of toothpaste.
• Place sealants on the molars to protect them from decay.
• Teach your child to spit out foam after brushing.
• Start flossing as soon as two teeth touch.
• Visit the dentist to make sure that they are getting enough fluoride.

It is recommended that parents help their children brush their teeth twice a day until they are 8 years old or until they show that they can do a good job caring for their smile on their own.  To learn more about how you can care for your child’s smile, visit Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove.   We are happy to offer tips to keep your child's new teeth healthy.  Call 516-222-5100 to contact our Garden City office or call 516-759-7000 to contact our Glen Cove office.

Fun Brushing and Flossing Tips for Kids

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Good brushing and flossing habits are essential for all kids.  That’s why we think it’s so important to make caring for your teeth fun! 

Here are 6 ways to get your kids excited about their smiles:

• Fun Toothbrush – There are so many kid-friendly options available.  Let your kid pick out their favorite character or color!  Just make sure the toothbrush is ADA approved.
• Flavored Toothpaste – Mint flavors can be too strong for some kids.  Try milder toothpastes like bubblegum or berry.  Knowing they love their toothpaste flavor can make brushing more enjoyable.
• Bathroom Charts – Let your kid add a sticker after they brush.  At the end of the week, they can even get a small prize.
• Timers or Songs – Using a fun timer or playing their favorite song can make brushing for a full 2-3 minutes more exciting. 
• Practice – Brushing and flossing habits can be tough to master, even for adults!  Let them practice their skills on their favorite doll.  Lego “teeth” are also a great way to practice flossing.  Kids can floss clay from between the teeth with a piece of string.
• Reading – There are tons of great children’s books about brushing your teeth.  This is an excellent way to reinforce the message of keeping your smile healthy.

At Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove we are always looking for new ways to making caring for kids’ smiles fun!  Contact our Garden City office by calling 516-222-5100 or our Glen Cove office by calling 516-759-7000.

Snow Day Activities for Kids

Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove

Garden City:516-222-5100

Glen Cove: 516-759-7000

www.PediatricDentistryofGardenCity.com

Photo Source: Flickr

With the blizzard on Long Island approaching, your kids might be having the day off. A snow day means snowmen and igloos, but they can’t stay outside all day. So for when your kids are stuck in the house give them some wholesome entertainment. KludgyMom.com has some fun ideas to give you and your kids a great snow day!

Play board games! You can spend hours on games you used to play as a child. Dust off the old boards and gather the family! Or make hide and seek a family affair and top it all off with a game of Charades.

Bake anything you might have in your house. You can look up quick recipes that you already have ingredients for.

A snow day is a great time to catch up with distant relatives. You and your kids can video chat your loved ones.

Build a fort and a pillow mountain. Grab all the blankets and pillows you have and camp out in your homemade fort. You could even play games in it too!

Have a rotating party! Each family member will be assigned to a room with different activities. One room can be designated for coloring while another can become a dance club.

For more fun snow day ideas, CLICK HERE. 

Keep your children’s teeth as white as snow this winter and schedule an appointment with Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City. For more information please visit www.pediatricdentistryofgardencity.com