Pediatric Dentistry
First Visits.
Primary teeth, also known as “baby teeth” typically appear between 6-12 months of age. These teeth are important and play a key role in speaking clearly and chewing naturally. Primary teeth also form a path where permanent teeth will later grow in when they are ready. Getting an early start in regular dental care is an important step on the road to teaching your child a lifetime of healthy oral health habits. The AAPD recommends that you bring your child in for their first dental visit after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday, but if your child has not yet been seen by a dentist by this age, do not worry — it’s never too late!
During the first visit, your baby’s teeth will be cleaned and our dentists will count and examine your baby’s teeth. If recommended, we may apply fluoride to help strengthen your child’s teeth. We will also provide tips to mom, dad or other care-taker on daily hygiene tips.
Routine General Check-Ups.
The AAPD recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year. Some children may need more frequent dental visits if they have an increased risk for tooth decay or have unusual oral growth patterns or poor oral hygiene.
During their visits, your child will have their teeth professionally (and gently) cleaned. If recommended by the dentist, fluoride treatments may be applied and only if your child is due or if it is recommended, your child may have X-Rays. The pediatric dentists at NY Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics will evaluate your child’s oral health, continue to provide education on the importance of preventative care and provide tips on at-home dental hygiene.
Preventative Care.
Here at NY Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we will discuss the importance of preventative care with you and your child. Our office reviews proper brushing techniques, dental development, importance of flossing, fluoride, healthy oral hygiene tips, dietary recommendations, orthodontics, sealants and sports safety. Our office can also discuss dental sealants, which are used to protect teeth and prevent cavities in grooves and fissures of the molars. With preventative care, your child will be able to maintain a healthy smile, chew foods more easily/gain more nutrients from the foods they eat, speak clearly and a have better overall health (your child’s mouth is the gateway to the rest of their body). If there is proper preventative care, this means that future dental work will be less extensive, less painful and less expensive in the long run.
Children with Special Needs.
All of our doctors and staff members at NY Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics have extensive training, knowledge and experience treating and working with children with special needs or are medically compromised. We encourage parents or caretakers to be open and discuss any specific questions they may have regarding their children before and during their visit. Our practice is proud to have extensive experience and success in treating patients with special needs.
Restorative & Endodontic Care.
The dentists at NY Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics are skilled in restorative and endodontic care. Whether your child needs a filling, a crown, a pulpectomy or anything in between, our dentists will provide a consultation and discuss the best option for your child. Rest-assured, our dentists perform any necessary treatments in a gentle manner in our comfortable operatories.
Sedation.
If needed, our office provides varying levels of sedation during dental work:
Safe and effective, Nitrous Oxide is inhaled through a mask covering the nose and mouth, helping to relax, calm and reduce fear prior to dental procedures. Recovery from Nitrous Oxide is very quickly reversed (within 3-5 minutes).
Sedation can be provided in our office and is safely administered by a Certified Dental Anesthesiologist. We are able to provide comprehensive treatment during one visit while your child is asleep.
Coordinate Pediatric & Orthodontic Care.
Because our office has both Pediatric Dentists and Orthodontists on staff, your children are able to benefit and optimize oral health, all in the same office. Our orthodontists are right here in the Rye Brook office to provide services for space maintenance, intercepted orthodontics, fixed appliance therapy and Invisalign®.
Emergency Care.
It is not uncommon for children to experience dental injuries (fractured, displaced or knocked-out teeth). If your child is experiencing a dental emergency outside of business hours, call our office at 914-925-1099 and follow the instructions provided. Your call will be returned as soon as possible. If you are experiencing a serious or life threatening emergency, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room.