[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1212},["ShallowReactive",2],{"global":3,"doctors-all":587,"locations-all":798,"categories-all":824,"blog":855,"posts-category-child-oral-health":873},{"title":4,"slug":4,"phone":5,"email":9,"company_name":10,"colors":11,"typography":57,"social_media":64,"top_bar":71,"navigation":94,"add_top_bar":75,"footer_links":106,"banner_text":102,"additional_links":122,"badges":73,"box":139,"testimonials":145,"tiles":304,"smile_transformations":317,"enable_development_mode":75,"display_all_smiles":75,"faq":340},"global",{"label":6,"href":7,"aria":8},"518.545.4040","tel:+15185454040","call 5 1 8, 5 4 5, 4 0 4 0","info@thetoothdoctors.com","Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry",[12,19,25,31,37,41,45,51],{"label":13,"color":14},"primary",{"red":15,"green":16,"blue":17,"alpha":18},0,60,113,1,{"label":20,"color":21},"secondary",{"red":22,"green":23,"blue":24,"alpha":18},121,192,65,{"label":26,"color":27},"tertiary",{"red":28,"green":29,"blue":30,"alpha":18},237,25,68,{"label":32,"color":33},"gray-1",{"red":34,"green":35,"blue":36,"alpha":18},94,99,103,{"label":38,"color":39},"bg-1",{"red":40,"green":40,"blue":40,"alpha":18},246,{"label":42,"color":43},"bg-2",{"red":44,"green":44,"blue":44,"alpha":18},234,{"label":46,"color":47},"orange",{"red":48,"green":49,"blue":50,"alpha":18},247,146,30,{"label":52,"color":53},"purple",{"red":54,"green":55,"blue":56,"alpha":18},132,105,222,[58,61],{"label":59,"font":60},"font","'Urbane', sans-serif",{"label":62,"font":63},"font-2","'Usual', sans-serif",[65,68],{"account":66,"href":67},"facebook","https://www.facebook.com/TheToothDrs",{"account":69,"href":70},"instagram","https://www.instagram.com/toothdrs/",{"alignment":72,"hide_on_mobile":73,"type":74,"include_social_media":75,"social_media":76,"include_contact_info":75,"contact_info":79,"phone":82,"announcement":86},"left",false,"links",true,[77,78],{"account":69},{"account":66},[80,81],"address","phone",{"type":83,"number":84,"href":85},"phone-global","123-456-7890","tel:+11234567890",{"type":87,"text":88,"mobile_text":89,"href":90,"external_link":73,"modal":91},"message","desktop message is display here","mobile message is here","/",{"title":92,"body":93},"modal header","\u003Cp>Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. 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Nunc magna tortor, condimentum porttitor suscipit et, auctor vel quam.\u003C/p>\n",{"logo":95,"alignment":72,"dropdown_menu_style":96,"add_lines":75,"hide_links_on_desktop":75,"include_phone_number":75,"phone":97,"cta":99,"quick_links":73},"horizontally","centered",{"type":98,"number":6,"href":7},"phone-manual",{"label":100,"aria_label":101,"href":102,"path":103,"external":75,"type":104,"hash":105},"Appointments","schedule a free consultation on the contact page","","/contact","nuxt","general-form",[107,110,114,118],{"label":108,"aria":109,"path":103},"Contact","go to contact page",{"label":111,"aria":112,"path":113},"Blog","go to blog page","/blog",{"label":115,"aria":116,"path":117},"Doctor referral","go to doctor referral form","/doctor-referral",{"label":119,"aria":120,"path":121},"Careers","go to careers page","/careers",[123,127,131,135],{"label":124,"aria":125,"path":126},"Nondiscrimination","go to Nondiscrimination page","/nondiscrimination",{"label":128,"aria":129,"path":130},"Privacy policy","go to Privacy policy page","/privacy-policy",{"label":132,"aria":133,"path":134},"Accessibility statement","go to Accessibility statement page","/accessibility",{"label":136,"aria":137,"path":138},"Site map","go to site map","/sitemap",{"text":140,"button":141},"Schedule your appointment today!",{"type":104,"label":142,"aria_label":143,"href":102,"path":103,"hash":105,"external":75,"color":144},"Schedule online","schedule online","white-green",[146,172,188,202,216,233,247,261,275,291],{"name":147,"body":148,"image":149},"Jessica","The staff is wonderful! They are always helpful, friendly, and accommodating. The office is clean and bright. I love the open layout where I can sit with both of my children during their appointments. It's a great place for young kids.\r\n",{"ID":150,"id":150,"title":151,"filename":152,"filesize":153,"url":154,"link":155,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":151,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":159,"modified":159,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":164,"height":165,"sizes":166},7747,"testimonials-emily-1","testimonials-emily-1.jpg",60845,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-emily-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-emily-1/","3","inherit",200,"2026-02-18 20:44:12","image/jpeg","image","jpeg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/wp-includes/images/media/default.png",1000,667,{"thumbnail":167,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":169,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":171,"medium_large":169,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":171,"large":154,"large-width":164,"large-height":165,"1536x1536":154,"1536x1536-width":164,"1536x1536-height":165,"2048x2048":154,"2048x2048-width":164,"2048x2048-height":165},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-emily-1-150x150.jpg",150,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-emily-1-768x512.jpg",768,512,{"name":173,"body":174,"image":175},"Melika","The service is wonderful and worth it. The people who work here are always smiling and spreading kindness. It always uplifts my day. The best dental clinic I have ever been to.\r\n",{"ID":176,"id":176,"title":177,"filename":178,"filesize":179,"url":180,"link":181,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":182,"name":183,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":184,"modified":184,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":185,"height":185,"sizes":186},7748,"happy little african american girl over grey","faq-malika_1.jpg",109409,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-malika_1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/happy-little-african-american-girl-over-grey/","childhood and people concept - happy little african american girl over grey background","happy-little-african-american-girl-over-grey","2026-02-18 20:44:25",750,{"thumbnail":187,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":180,"medium-width":185,"medium-height":185,"medium_large":180,"medium_large-width":185,"medium_large-height":185,"large":180,"large-width":185,"large-height":185,"1536x1536":180,"1536x1536-width":185,"1536x1536-height":185,"2048x2048":180,"2048x2048-width":185,"2048x2048-height":185},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-malika_1-150x150.jpg",{"name":189,"body":190,"image":191},"Amy","Our daughter has developed dental anxiety over the past few years and the staff has been excellent at helping her through it! They are kind and compassionate and each time she goes, the visit is a little easier for her!\r\n",{"ID":192,"id":192,"title":193,"filename":194,"filesize":195,"url":196,"link":197,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":193,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":198,"modified":198,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":164,"height":164,"sizes":199},7749,"testimonials-stella-1","testimonials-stella-1.jpg",165448,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-stella-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-stella-1/","2026-02-18 20:44:44",{"thumbnail":200,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":201,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":170,"medium_large":201,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":170,"large":196,"large-width":164,"large-height":164,"1536x1536":196,"1536x1536-width":164,"1536x1536-height":164,"2048x2048":196,"2048x2048-width":164,"2048x2048-height":164},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-stella-1-150x150.jpg","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-stella-1-768x768.jpg",{"name":203,"body":204,"image":205},"Lashauna","Perfect example of a patient oriented professional establishment! Appointments are always on time, very friendly front desk, professional experience! Highly recommend! Everyone has been very professional!",{"ID":206,"id":206,"title":207,"filename":208,"filesize":209,"url":210,"link":211,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":207,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":212,"modified":212,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":213,"height":213,"sizes":214},7750,"testimonials-lashauna-1","testimonials-lashauna-1.jpg",87340,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-lashauna-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-lashauna-1/","2026-02-18 20:45:12",600,{"thumbnail":215,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":210,"medium-width":213,"medium-height":213,"medium_large":210,"medium_large-width":213,"medium_large-height":213,"large":210,"large-width":213,"large-height":213,"1536x1536":210,"1536x1536-width":213,"1536x1536-height":213,"2048x2048":210,"2048x2048-width":213,"2048x2048-height":213},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-lashauna-1-150x150.jpg",{"name":217,"body":218,"image":219},"Mary","The team was very helpful and Dr. Lindsey was open and honest with her advice. We are thankful for their great service over the past few years.",{"ID":220,"id":220,"title":221,"filename":222,"filesize":223,"url":224,"link":225,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":221,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":226,"modified":226,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":227,"height":228,"sizes":229},7751,"testimonials-libby-1","testimonials-libby-1.jpg",90006,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-libby-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-libby-1/","2026-02-18 20:45:30",800,534,{"thumbnail":230,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":231,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":232,"medium_large":231,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":232,"large":224,"large-width":227,"large-height":228,"1536x1536":224,"1536x1536-width":227,"1536x1536-height":228,"2048x2048":224,"2048x2048-width":227,"2048x2048-height":228},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-libby-1-150x150.jpg","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-libby-1-768x513.jpg",513,{"name":234,"body":235,"image":236},"Victoria","They are great with my daughter, she's still very young and they are all very personable and make the experience less scary & just great!!! They also have games & books in the waiting area, which we never have to wait long enough to play with but the environment just looks friendly and inviting. My daughter always talks about the Dino footprints leading to the office. She loves it!\r\n",{"ID":237,"id":237,"title":238,"filename":239,"filesize":240,"url":241,"link":242,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":238,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":243,"modified":243,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":164,"height":164,"sizes":244},7752,"testimonials-maggie-1","testimonials-maggie-1.jpg",176016,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-maggie-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-maggie-1/","2026-02-18 20:46:00",{"thumbnail":245,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":246,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":170,"medium_large":246,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":170,"large":241,"large-width":164,"large-height":164,"1536x1536":241,"1536x1536-width":164,"1536x1536-height":164,"2048x2048":241,"2048x2048-width":164,"2048x2048-height":164},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-maggie-1-150x150.jpg","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-maggie-1-768x768.jpg",{"name":248,"body":249,"image":250},"Kristen","Dr. Lindsey took the time with my kiddo and tried to make him feel as comfortable as possible. She explained everything to him and made him feel like it was his appointment and not his parent’s. Dr. Lindsey and her staff were warm, friendly and accommodating to our needs. Such an outstanding practice!",{"ID":251,"id":251,"title":252,"filename":253,"filesize":254,"url":255,"link":256,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":252,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":257,"modified":257,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":164,"height":164,"sizes":258},7753,"testimonials-drew-1","testimonials-drew-1.jpg",123131,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-drew-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-drew-1/","2026-02-18 20:46:29",{"thumbnail":259,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":260,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":170,"medium_large":260,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":170,"large":255,"large-width":164,"large-height":164,"1536x1536":255,"1536x1536-width":164,"1536x1536-height":164,"2048x2048":255,"2048x2048-width":164,"2048x2048-height":164},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-drew-1-150x150.jpg","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-drew-1-768x768.jpg",{"name":262,"body":263,"image":264},"Rachel","We always have a positive experience at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry. They are friendly, very short wait time and they make dental work as easy as possible.",{"ID":265,"id":265,"title":266,"filename":267,"filesize":268,"url":269,"link":270,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":266,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":271,"modified":271,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":164,"height":164,"sizes":272},7754,"testimonials-rachel-1","testimonials-rachel-1.jpg",161177,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-rachel-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-rachel-1/","2026-02-18 20:46:55",{"thumbnail":273,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":274,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":170,"medium_large":274,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":170,"large":269,"large-width":164,"large-height":164,"1536x1536":269,"1536x1536-width":164,"1536x1536-height":164,"2048x2048":269,"2048x2048-width":164,"2048x2048-height":164},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-rachel-1-150x150.jpg","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-rachel-1-768x768.jpg",{"name":276,"body":277,"image":278},"Jen","Our son is apprehensive about the x-rays(bitewings) and getting his teeth cleaned. We saw Dr.Lindsay and it was a success! He had his teeth cleaned and x-rays done. He was a bit nervous at first but by the time we were checking out, he was happy and smiling. Highly recommend to anyone with kids. Great atmosphere and everyone is very friendly and welcoming.",{"ID":279,"id":279,"title":280,"filename":281,"filesize":282,"url":283,"link":284,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":280,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":286,"modified":287,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":289},7313,"faq-pacifier2","faq-pacifier2.jpg",36944,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-pacifier2.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-pacifier2/","1","2025-07-25 22:02:39","2026-02-18 20:52:00",555,{"thumbnail":290,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":283,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":283,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":283,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":283,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":283,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-pacifier2-150x150.jpg",{"name":292,"body":293,"image":294},"K.","Love this practice. They are always compassionate, prepared and on time. The staff makes the entire experience wonderful. The office is spotless and very kid friendly. We have gone there for years and always leave feeling thankful for this fantastic practice. ",{"ID":295,"id":295,"title":296,"filename":297,"filesize":298,"url":299,"link":300,"alt":102,"author":156,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":296,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":301,"modified":301,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":228,"height":228,"sizes":302},7755,"testimonials-sia-1","testimonials-sia-1.jpg",98005,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-sia-1.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/testimonials-sia-1/","2026-02-18 20:47:26",{"thumbnail":303,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":299,"medium-width":228,"medium-height":228,"medium_large":299,"medium_large-width":228,"medium_large-height":228,"large":299,"large-width":228,"large-height":228,"1536x1536":299,"1536x1536-width":228,"1536x1536-height":228,"2048x2048":299,"2048x2048-width":228,"2048x2048-height":228},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/testimonials-sia-1-150x150.jpg",[305,308,311,314],{"label":306,"url":307},"wave-grey","https://dz0bef9e8emfy.cloudfront.net/misc/wave-grey.png",{"label":309,"url":310},"wave-white","https://dz0bef9e8emfy.cloudfront.net/misc/wave-white.png",{"label":312,"url":313},"wave-blue","https://dz0bef9e8emfy.cloudfront.net/misc/wave-blue-2.png",{"label":315,"url":316},"wave-light-grey","https://dz0bef9e8emfy.cloudfront.net/misc/wave-light-grey.png",{"content":102,"gallery_content":318,"no_posts_message":319,"no_posts_content":332},{"content":319,"header":320,"subheader":102,"body":321,"buttons":322,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},null,"We believe in beautiful, healthy, confident smiles","\u003Cp>Nature had 32 chances to get it wrong. Good thing you have us to straighten things out.\u003C/p>\n",[323],{"button":324},{"type":104,"label":325,"aria_label":326,"href":102,"path":327,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"See more smile transformations","Go to smile transformations page","/smile-transformations","blue","inline","unset","grey",{"content":319,"header":102,"subheader":102,"body":333,"buttons":334,"options":319,"text_alignment":339,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},"\u003Cp>We don’t have any smile transformations for this location at this time, but we would love for you to visit one of our locations to support your journey to a beautiful, healthy, and confident smile.\u003C/p>\n",[335],{"button":336},{"type":104,"label":337,"aria_label":338,"href":102,"path":103,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"Schedule your free consultation","Go to contact page to schedule your free consultation","center",{"header":341,"slides":342},"Questions we commonly hear",[343,360,374,389,408,424,437,452,466,483,497,512,518,532,546,560,574],{"image":344,"question":355,"answer":356,"button":357},{"ID":345,"id":345,"title":346,"filename":347,"filesize":348,"url":349,"link":350,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":346,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":351,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":353},7312,"faq-oral-sucking-habits","faq-oral-sucking-habits.jpg",39703,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-oral-sucking-habits.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-oral-sucking-habits/","2025-07-25 22:02:38","2025-07-25 22:10:03",{"thumbnail":354,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":349,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":349,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":349,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":349,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":349,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-oral-sucking-habits-150x150.jpg","At what age should my child visit a pediatric dentist?","The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first visit to the dentist should occur by twelve months of age. This visit will enable our pediatric dentists to evaluate your child and discuss proper oral hygiene. Early education and guidance about diet, fluoride, tooth eruption and finger/pacifier habits can help ensure optimal dental health.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":359,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"Read more","/blog/when-should-i-take-my-child-for-their-first-dental-appointment",{"image":361,"question":371,"answer":372,"button":373},{"ID":362,"id":362,"title":363,"filename":364,"filesize":365,"url":366,"link":367,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":363,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":368,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":369},7314,"faq-pacifiers","faq-pacifiers.jpg",40026,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-pacifiers.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-pacifiers/","2025-07-25 22:02:40",{"thumbnail":370,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":366,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":366,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":366,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":366,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":366,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-pacifiers-150x150.jpg","How often should my child visit a pediatric dentist?","The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that most children visit the dentist at least twice a year. Some children need more frequent care and teeth cleanings because of increased risk of tooth decay, unusual growth patterns, or poor oral hygiene. Our pediatric dentists will help determine the best teeth cleaning schedule for your child.",{"type":104,"label":102,"aria_label":102,"href":102,"path":102,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":375,"question":385,"answer":386,"button":387},{"ID":376,"id":376,"title":377,"filename":378,"filesize":379,"url":380,"link":381,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":377,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":382,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":383},7319,"faq-sports-drinks","faq-sports-drinks.jpg",40085,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-sports-drinks.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-sports-drinks/","2025-07-25 22:02:44",{"thumbnail":384,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":380,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":380,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":380,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":380,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":380,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-sports-drinks-150x150.jpg","Why are \"baby teeth\" important?","Primary teeth have been labeled \"baby teeth.\" Primary teeth are necessary for proper chewing, speech, development of the jaws and esthetics. Care of the primary teeth is important, not only for proper function but also to avoid a number of unpleasant conditions, such as pain, that result from their neglect",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":388,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/why-baby-teeth-are-important",{"image":390,"question":404,"answer":405,"button":406},{"ID":391,"id":391,"title":392,"filename":393,"filesize":394,"url":395,"link":396,"alt":397,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":392,"status":157,"uploaded_to":398,"date":399,"modified":400,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":402},7344,"blog-teething-stage","blog-teething-stage.jpg",23254,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-teething-stage.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/how-can-i-help-my-child-through-the-teething-stage/blog-teething-stage/","Baby in dentist chair",6004,"2025-07-28 19:58:29","2025-07-28 21:08:32",238,{"thumbnail":403,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":395,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":395,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":395,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":395,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":395,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-teething-stage-150x150.jpg","Does your child use a sippy cup?","Sippy cup or nursing bottle mouth (early childhood caries) is caused by frequent and lengthy exposure to liquids containing sugars (milk, breast milk, sports drinks, formula, soda, fruit juice) and can destroy your child’s teeth if not caught in time. It’s best to let us check your baby early, before his/her first birthday.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":407,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/all-about-baby-bottle-tooth-decayv",{"image":409,"question":419,"answer":420,"button":421},{"ID":410,"id":410,"title":411,"filename":412,"filesize":413,"url":414,"link":415,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":411,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":416,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":417},7308,"faq-baby-teeth","faq-baby-teeth.jpg",35075,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-baby-teeth.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-baby-teeth/","2025-07-25 22:02:35",{"thumbnail":418,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":414,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":414,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":414,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":414,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":414,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-baby-teeth-150x150.jpg","Does your child use a pacifier or suck his/her thumb?","This type of sucking is completely normal for infants and young children. It provides security and relaxation. Most children stop sucking their thumb or pacifier between two and four years of age with no harm to their teeth or jaws. However, children should cease these habits prior to the eruption of their permanent teeth.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":422,"href":102,"path":423,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"read more","/blog/will-thumb-sucking-or-using-a-pacifier-hurt-my-childs-teeth",{"image":425,"question":434,"answer":435,"button":436},{"ID":426,"id":426,"title":427,"filename":428,"filesize":429,"url":430,"link":431,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":427,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":368,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":432},7315,"faq-parent-exam","faq-parent-exam.jpg",49835,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-parent-exam.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-parent-exam/",{"thumbnail":433,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":430,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":430,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":430,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":430,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":430,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-parent-exam-150x150.jpg","Do you care for children with special needs?","Our pediatric dentists have an additional two years of advanced training beyond dental school. Their specialty education provided additional training that focused specifically on care for children with special needs. Additionally, our office is designed to be physically accessible to special patients.",{"type":104,"label":102,"aria_label":102,"href":102,"path":102,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":438,"question":448,"answer":449,"button":450},{"ID":439,"id":439,"title":440,"filename":441,"filesize":442,"url":443,"link":444,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":440,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":445,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":446},7316,"faq-should-see-pediatric-dentist","faq-should-see-pediatric-dentist.jpg",40617,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-should-see-pediatric-dentist.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-should-see-pediatric-dentist/","2025-07-25 22:02:41",{"thumbnail":447,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":443,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":443,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":443,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":443,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":443,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-should-see-pediatric-dentist-150x150.jpg","What are dental sealants and who can benefit from them?","The chewing surface of children’s teeth is most susceptible to cavities and least benefited from fluoride. Sealants are adhesive coatings that are applied to the tops of teeth and can be very effective in preventing tooth decay. Molars are the most decayed teeth because plaque accumulates in the tiny grooves of the chewing surfaces. Sealants prevent the cavities that fluoride cannot effectively reach.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":451,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/the-benefits-of-dental-sealants/",{"image":453,"question":462,"answer":463,"button":464},{"ID":454,"id":454,"title":455,"filename":456,"filesize":457,"url":458,"link":459,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":455,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":416,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":460},7307,"faq-baby-bottle-decay","faq-baby-bottle-decay.jpg",38103,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-baby-bottle-decay.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-baby-bottle-decay/",{"thumbnail":461,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":458,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":458,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":458,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":458,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":458,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-baby-bottle-decay-150x150.jpg","My child likes to drink sports drinks. Is that a problem?","Yes. Sports drinks can cause as many cavities as regular soda pop. During hot, strenuous activities, sports drinks may be helpful, however if they contain sugar, they can also cause cavities. Kids age 6 and up should aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":422,"href":102,"path":465,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/best-food-and-diet-recommendations-for-your-childs-teeth",{"image":467,"question":479,"answer":480,"button":481},{"ID":468,"id":468,"title":469,"filename":470,"filesize":471,"url":472,"link":473,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":469,"status":157,"uploaded_to":474,"date":475,"modified":476,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":477},7329,"blog-baby-bottle-tooth-decay","blog-baby-bottle-tooth-decay.jpg",11017,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-baby-bottle-tooth-decay.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/all-about-baby-bottle-tooth-decay/blog-baby-bottle-tooth-decay/",5943,"2025-07-28 19:58:18","2025-07-28 20:01:50",{"thumbnail":478,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":472,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":472,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":472,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":472,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":472,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-baby-bottle-tooth-decay-150x150.jpg","If my child gets a cavity in a baby tooth, should it still be filled?","Yes! Primary or “baby” teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also hold space that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. Pain, infection of the gums and jaw, impairment of general health and premature loss of teeth are just a few problems that can happen when baby teeth are neglected.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":422,"href":102,"path":482,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/what-causes-tooth-decay-in-kids",{"image":484,"question":493,"answer":494,"button":495},{"ID":485,"id":485,"title":486,"filename":487,"filesize":488,"url":489,"link":490,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":486,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":351,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":491},7311,"faq-how-often","faq-how-often.jpg",41443,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-how-often.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-how-often/",{"thumbnail":492,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":489,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":489,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":489,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":489,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":489,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-how-often-150x150.jpg","When should my child start using toothpaste?","Children may start using fluoride toothpaste when the baby teeth erupt, but only under direct supervision by a parent. Use only a very small amount of toothpaste (about half the size of a pea) and wipe off the tooth and gums with a washcloth afterwards.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":496,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/five-facts-about-fluoride-for-kids",{"image":498,"question":508,"answer":509,"button":510},{"ID":499,"id":499,"title":500,"filename":501,"filesize":502,"url":503,"link":504,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":500,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":505,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":506},7323,"faq-why-are-baby-teeth","faq-why-are-baby-teeth.jpg",28865,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-why-are-baby-teeth.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-why-are-baby-teeth/","2025-07-25 22:02:46",{"thumbnail":507,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":503,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":503,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":503,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":503,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":503,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-why-are-baby-teeth-150x150.jpg","What is baby bottle tooth decay and how can I prevent it?","Baby bottle tooth decay is a pattern of rapid decay associated with prolonged nursing. It happens when a child goes to sleep while breast-feeding or bottle-feeding. During sleep, the flow of saliva is reduced and the natural self-cleansing action of the mouth is diminished. Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bedtime bottle.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":511,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"/blog/all-about-baby-bottle-tooth-decay",{"image":513,"question":515,"answer":516,"button":517},{"ID":279,"id":279,"title":280,"filename":281,"filesize":282,"url":283,"link":284,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":280,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":286,"modified":287,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":514},{"thumbnail":290,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":283,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":283,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":283,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":283,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":283,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"Why should my child see a pediatric dentist instead of our regular family dentist?","Pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty that focuses on the oral health of young people. Following dental school, a pediatric dentist spends two to three years in additional specialty training in the unique needs of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special needs.",{"type":104,"label":102,"aria_label":102,"href":102,"path":102,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":519,"question":529,"answer":530,"button":531},{"ID":520,"id":520,"title":521,"filename":522,"filesize":523,"url":524,"link":525,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":521,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":526,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":527},7318,"faq-special-needs","faq-special-needs.jpg",35191,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-special-needs.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-special-needs/","2025-07-25 22:02:43",{"thumbnail":528,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":524,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":524,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":524,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":524,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":524,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-special-needs-150x150.jpg","What can parents do to help make dental experiences positive?","If parents have their own fear or anxiety about the dentist, they should not share those with their child. Dentistry has changed over the years, and it is important to allow their child the opportunity to like their dentist and their dental home. Parents can refer to the dentist and team as helpful and as friends. If the parents show they trust the dentist their child will too.",{"type":104,"label":102,"aria_label":102,"href":102,"path":102,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":533,"question":543,"answer":544,"button":545},{"ID":534,"id":534,"title":535,"filename":536,"filesize":537,"url":538,"link":539,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":535,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":540,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":541},7310,"faq-dental-sealants","faq-dental-sealants.jpg",51967,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-dental-sealants.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-dental-sealants/","2025-07-25 22:02:37",{"thumbnail":542,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":538,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":538,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":538,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":538,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":538,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-dental-sealants-150x150.jpg","What do you recommend for busy families so they are making good dietary choices on a daily basis?","Diet plays a really important role for the development or risk for cavities. Eliminating chocolate milk or any juice all together is great, but moderation is key. Stay away from the sports drinks like Gatorade, Powerade and even sodas because they have a lot of acid. Mostly importantly stay away from sticky snacks like gummy vitamins, fruit snacks, things that stick in the grooves of your teeth.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":465,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":547,"question":557,"answer":558,"button":559},{"ID":548,"id":548,"title":549,"filename":550,"filesize":551,"url":552,"link":553,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":549,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":554,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":555},7317,"faq-sippycup","faq-sippycup.jpg",66738,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-sippycup.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-sippycup/","2025-07-25 22:02:42",{"thumbnail":556,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":552,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":552,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":552,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":552,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":552,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-sippycup-150x150.jpg","Aren't they just baby teeth?","Yes, but most children get their first teeth by age 1 and lose their last baby tooth by age 13. Early care and prevention are crucial. Baby teeth shape the mouth, allow for chewing, appropriate speech, and help guide permanent teeth into the mouth correctly. Cavities are a bacteria that if left untreated can cause significant pain and spread to neighboring teeth, surrounding bone and throughout the body.",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":388,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":561,"question":571,"answer":572,"button":573},{"ID":562,"id":562,"title":563,"filename":564,"filesize":565,"url":566,"link":567,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":563,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":568,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":569},7321,"faq-tooth-decay","faq-tooth-decay.jpg",34942,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-tooth-decay.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-tooth-decay/","2025-07-25 22:02:45",{"thumbnail":570,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":566,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":566,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":566,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":566,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":566,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-tooth-decay-150x150.jpg","A lot of young children like to suck on their fingers, thumbs and pacifiers, can these have adverse affects?","You’re right!  Sucking on thumbs, fingers and pacifiers is very normal and actually provides security for the very young child.  Most children will stop this habit on their own between the ages of 2 and 4.  Our guidelines recommend stopping that habit around 3 years of age to prevent any issues with the developing jaw and the way the teeth are positioned.\r\n",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":423,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},{"image":575,"question":584,"answer":585,"button":586},{"ID":576,"id":576,"title":577,"filename":578,"filesize":579,"url":580,"link":581,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":577,"status":157,"uploaded_to":158,"date":382,"modified":352,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":288,"height":288,"sizes":582},7320,"faq-start-using-toothpaste","faq-start-using-toothpaste.jpg",38893,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-start-using-toothpaste.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/globalData/global/faq-start-using-toothpaste/",{"thumbnail":583,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":580,"medium-width":288,"medium-height":288,"medium_large":580,"medium_large-width":288,"medium_large-height":288,"large":580,"large-width":288,"large-height":288,"1536x1536":580,"1536x1536-width":288,"1536x1536-height":288,"2048x2048":580,"2048x2048-width":288,"2048x2048-height":288},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/faq-start-using-toothpaste-150x150.jpg","What can a parent do to help stop oral sucking habits?","Most children do stop on their own, but some require additional help from their parents or pediatric dentist. For patients with a pacifier habit, the most successful way to stop is to simply take the pacifier away. For thumb/finger habits, we recommend using a rewards calendar. Your pediatric dentist may recommend placing an appliance that does not allow the patient to suck on their thumb or finger.\r\n",{"type":104,"label":358,"aria_label":358,"href":102,"path":423,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},[588,714],{"id":589,"title":590,"slug":591,"date":592,"seo":593,"position":599,"bio":600,"background":601,"image":602,"navigation_priority":608,"page_sections":609},7652,"Dr. Lindsey Battiste","dr-lindsey-battiste",["Date","2026-02-12T00:08:18.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":594,"page_description":102,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":596,"type":598},"Meet Dr. Lindsey Battiste","summary",{"title":594,"description":102,"image":597},"misc/logo.png","WebPage","Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist","I always focus on providing enjoyable dental experiences for children and emphasizing the importance of early education in oral hygiene.","\u003Cp>I find joy in spending quality time with my two wonderful kids and my husband, Dr. Matthew Battiste. Our weekends are often filled with the excitement of soccer games and horse shows, as we cheer on our children and their teammates. Animals hold a special place in my heart, with our family including two beloved dogs, a horse, and a lively group of backyard poultry. I’m an avid reader, finding delight in exploring the pages of various books across genres.\u003C/p>\n",{"image":603},{"content":319,"src":604,"webp":605,"alt":606,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/dr-lindsey-2.jpg","doctors/dr-lindsey-2.webp","Lindsey Battiste, DDS","cover","98",[610,616,669,695],{"acf_fc_layout":611,"content":612,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":615},"team_carousel_with_content",{"content":319,"header":594,"subheader":102,"body":613,"buttons":73,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},"\u003Cp>I firmly believe in following one’s passion, which for me, is pediatric dentistry. Each day presents new opportunities and challenges as I engage with the vibrant world of children’s oral health. Witnessing the growth and development of my young patients from childhood to adulthood is truly rewarding. Making dentistry enjoyable for kids is a priority, often lightening the atmosphere with my own brand of humor. I’m a firm believer in the power of early education in dental hygiene, knowing that small steps taken today can lead to significant impacts in the future.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>With over a decade of practice in Schenectady, I’ve become deeply rooted in the community, staying connected with families beyond dental care. Despite the occasional appearance of gray hairs, my spirit remains youthful, fueled by the energy and laughter of the children I have the privilege to care for.\u003C/p>\n","half","negative-top",{"acf_fc_layout":617,"images":618,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"background_color":665,"border_position":666,"flip_horizontally":664,"top_border":667,"bottom_border":668,"bubbles_inset":102},"gallery",[619,624,629,634,639,644,649,654,659],{"image":620},{"content":319,"src":621,"webp":622,"alt":623,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-01.jpg","doctors/carousel-01.webp","boy on dental chair",{"image":625},{"content":319,"src":626,"webp":627,"alt":628,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-02.jpg","doctors/carousel-02.webp","siblings smiling",{"image":630},{"content":319,"src":631,"webp":632,"alt":633,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-03.jpg","doctors/carousel-03.webp","staff with masks",{"image":635},{"content":319,"src":636,"webp":637,"alt":638,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-04.jpg","doctors/carousel-04.webp","Dr. John with patient",{"image":640},{"content":319,"src":641,"webp":642,"alt":643,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-05.jpg","doctors/carousel-05.webp","siblings smiling in office",{"image":645},{"content":319,"src":646,"webp":647,"alt":648,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-06.jpg","doctors/carousel-06.webp","Dr. Lindsey and her children smiling",{"image":650},{"content":319,"src":651,"webp":652,"alt":653,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-07.jpg","doctors/carousel-07.webp","Dr. Lindsey and horse",{"image":655},{"content":319,"src":656,"webp":657,"alt":658,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-08.jpg","doctors/carousel-08.webp","Dr. Lindsey and family",{"image":660},{"content":319,"src":661,"webp":662,"alt":663,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/carousel-09.jpg","doctors/carousel-09.webp","Dr. Lindsey's children with fish they caught","none","green","both","four-bubbles","seven-bubbles",{"acf_fc_layout":670,"content":671,"tiles":673,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},"content_image_tiles",{"content":319,"header":672,"subheader":102,"body":102,"buttons":73,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},"Education and professional associations",[674,681,688],{"title":675,"body":676,"svg":677,"image":678},"Cornell University","Bachelor of Science\u003Cbr>\r\nCornell University\u003Cbr>\r\nIthaca, New York","cornell",{"content":319,"src":679,"webp":680,"alt":675,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/cornell-logo.png","doctors/cornell-logo.webp",{"title":682,"body":683,"svg":684,"image":685},"Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine","Doctor of Dental Surgery\u003Cbr>\r\nStony Brook School of Dental Medicine\u003Cbr>\r\nStony Brook, NY","stonybrook",{"content":319,"src":686,"webp":687,"alt":682,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/stonybrook-logo.png","doctors/stonybrook-logo.webp",{"title":689,"body":690,"svg":691,"image":692},"Eastman Institute for Oral Health","Certificate Pediatric Dentistry\u003Cbr>\r\nEastman Institute for Oral Health\u003Cbr>\r\nRochester, NY","eastman",{"content":319,"src":693,"webp":694,"alt":689,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/eastman-logo.png","doctors/eastman-logo.webp",{"acf_fc_layout":670,"content":696,"tiles":698,"hash":102,"component_padding":713,"component_margins":664},{"content":319,"header":102,"subheader":102,"body":697,"buttons":73,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},"\u003Cp>Through my professional affiliations, I’m able to connect and collaborate with fellow orthodontists and dentists to allow for continued growth and sharing of knowledge, ensuring that we all provide quality care to the patients we serve. I’m proud to be a professional member of the following associations:\u003C/p>\n",[699,706],{"title":700,"body":701,"svg":702,"image":703},"American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry","Founded in 1947, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) is a not-for-profit membership association representing the specialty of pediatric dentistry through its 7,500+ members nationwide.","aapd",{"content":319,"src":704,"webp":705,"alt":700,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/aapd.jpg","doctors/aapd.webp",{"title":707,"body":708,"svg":709,"image":710},"American Board of Pediatric Dentistry","The American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD) was organized by the American Society of Dentistry for Children in 1940. ABPD’s commitment to excellence through a certification process that inspires lifelong learning enables pediatric dentists to deliver quality care.","abpd",{"content":319,"src":711,"webp":712,"alt":707,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/abpd.png","doctors/abpd.webp","half-top-full-bottom",{"id":715,"title":716,"slug":717,"date":718,"seo":719,"position":722,"bio":723,"background":724,"image":725,"navigation_priority":730,"page_sections":731},7651,"Dr. Katherine Dority","dr-katherine-dority",["Date","2026-02-11T23:37:32.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":720,"page_description":102,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":721,"type":598},"Meet Dr. Katherine Dority",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},"Pediatric Dentist","I love witnessing the visible transformation that happens when a child's oral health improves. Helping restore a mouth from active disease to health—alongside positive habit changes—is incredibly fulfilling.","\u003Cp>I love spending time with my family and friends, most of whom are based here in Upstate New York (hence why I’m excited to be back)! The lake and being outside brings me so much happiness too. I’m an avid snow skier, water skier, and wake surfer. I hope to start horseback riding again and I hope to learn how to fly airplanes.\u003C/p>\n",{"image":726},{"content":319,"src":727,"webp":728,"alt":729,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/dr-dority.jpg","doctors/dr-dority.webp","Dr Dority","96",[732,735,753,771],{"acf_fc_layout":611,"content":733,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},{"content":319,"header":720,"subheader":102,"body":734,"buttons":73,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},"\u003Cp>My interest in dentistry itself began in childhood, when I’d “play dentist” with my neighborhood friends. This interest stayed with me through college, where everything came together during my college internship at a pediatric dental office. My major in Health Sciences, with its foundation in public health, aligned with the fun and preventative focus of pediatric dentistry. It was as if everything finally made sense in that moment.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Being able to turn a potentially anxious experience into something fun and empowering is what makes me passionate about this field. Partnering with a child to work toward a shared goal is truly special.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Pediatric dentistry feels like a team sport, and I love being part of it. I enjoy working with children and families to improve health while creating a friendly, relaxed environment that puts kids at ease. Seeing families leave feeling happy and comfortable is the cherry on top.\u003C/p>\n",{"acf_fc_layout":617,"images":736,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"background_color":665,"border_position":666,"flip_horizontally":664,"top_border":752,"bottom_border":668,"bubbles_inset":102},[737,742,747],{"image":738},{"content":319,"src":739,"webp":740,"alt":741,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/katherine-life-1.jpeg","doctors/katherine-life-1.webp","katherine 1",{"image":743},{"content":319,"src":744,"webp":745,"alt":746,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/katherine-life-2.jpeg","doctors/katherine-life-2.webp","katherine 2",{"image":748},{"content":319,"src":749,"webp":750,"alt":751,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/katherine-life-3.jpeg","doctors/katherine-life-3.webp","katherine 3","four-bubbles-2",{"acf_fc_layout":670,"content":754,"tiles":755,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},{"content":319,"header":672,"subheader":102,"body":102,"buttons":73,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},[756,764],{"title":757,"body":758,"svg":759,"image":760},"University at Buffalo","Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)\u003Cbr>\r\nResidency in Advanced Education in Pediatric Dentistry\u003Cbr>\r\nUniversity at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine\u003Cbr>\r\nBuffalo, New York","buffalo-u",{"content":319,"src":761,"webp":762,"alt":763,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/buffalo-u.png","doctors/buffalo-u.webp","Buffalo University",{"title":765,"body":766,"svg":767,"image":768},"Boston University","Bachelor of Science\u003Cbr>\r\nBoston University\u003Cbr>\r\nBoston, Massachusetts","boston-u",{"content":319,"src":769,"webp":770,"alt":765,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/boston.png","doctors/boston.webp",{"acf_fc_layout":670,"content":772,"tiles":773,"hash":102,"component_padding":713,"component_margins":664},{"content":319,"header":102,"subheader":102,"body":697,"buttons":73,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},[774,776,783,791],{"title":700,"body":701,"svg":702,"image":775},{"content":319,"src":704,"webp":705,"alt":700,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},{"title":777,"body":778,"svg":779,"image":780},"American Academy of Developmental Medicine & Dentistry","The American Academy of Developmental Medicine & Dentistry (AADMD) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It brings together medical and dental professionals to promote education, research, and advocacy aimed at eliminating health disparities. The AADMD also supports training and resources to ensure equitable, compassionate care for this underserved community.","aadmd",{"content":319,"src":781,"webp":782,"alt":777,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/aadmd.png","doctors/aadmd.webp",{"title":784,"body":785,"svg":786,"image":787},"American Dental Association","The American Dental Association (ADA) is the largest professional organization for dentists in the United States, representing over 159,000 members. It promotes oral health, sets evidence-based standards of dental practice, and advocates on behalf of patients and the profession. The ADA also provides continuing education, resources, and research to support excellence in dental care.","ada-2",{"content":319,"src":788,"webp":789,"alt":790,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/ada.jpg","doctors/ada.webp","American dental association",{"title":792,"body":793,"svg":794,"image":795},"New York State Dental Association","The New York State Dental Association (NYSDA) is a professional membership organization representing dentists throughout New York State. It advocates for the dental profession, advances oral health initiatives, and provides members with education, resources, and support to deliver high-quality patient care.","nysda",{"content":319,"src":796,"webp":797,"alt":792,"options":319,"bgColor":102,"imageBackground":73,"reverseImage":73,"blueOverlay":73,"addLoader":73,"objectPosition":102,"backgroundSize":607,"forceAlt":102},"doctors/nysda.png","doctors/nysda.webp",[799],{"id":800,"title":801,"slug":803,"date":804,"location":805,"seo":822},7649,{"rendered":802},"Schenectady","schenectady",["Date","2026-02-11T23:29:03.000Z"],{"relationships":319,"region":102,"doctors":102,"office_information":319,"address":806,"phone":812,"email":9,"hours":813,"image":814,"social_media":73,"include_invisalign_virtual_page":73,"include_mouthguard_page":73,"patient_forms":319,"forms":818},{"label":807,"href":808,"coordinates":809},"\u003Cp>1019 Keyes Ave,\u003Cbr />\nSchenectady, NY\u003Cbr />\n12309\u003C/p>\n","https://maps.app.goo.gl/55zTsEfYpA5FN9gA9",{"latitude":810,"longitude":811},"42.8053661","-73.904469",{"label":6,"href":7,"aria":8},"\u003Cp>Call for hours\u003C/p>\n",{"src":815,"webp":816,"alt":817},"https://dfeif4oh7w7l2.cloudfront.net/locations/locations-centennial.jpg","https://dfeif4oh7w7l2.cloudfront.net/locations/locations-centennial.webp","Schenectady office",[819],{"label":820,"href":821},"New Patient Form","https://d2z55dgf7yvtno.cloudfront.net/forms/New+Patient+Packet_SCP.pdf",{"":319,"page_title":102,"page_description":102,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":823,"type":598},{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},[825,830,835,840,845,850],{"id":826,"title":-1,"slug":827,"date":828,"name":829},39,"child-oral-health",["Date",""],"Child oral health",{"id":831,"title":-1,"slug":832,"date":833,"name":834},41,"diet-and-hygiene",["Date",""],"Diet and hygiene",{"id":836,"title":-1,"slug":837,"date":838,"name":839},42,"general",["Date",""],"General",{"id":841,"title":-1,"slug":842,"date":843,"name":844},40,"infant-oral-health",["Date",""],"Infant oral health",{"id":846,"title":-1,"slug":847,"date":848,"name":849},38,"teen-oral-health",["Date",""],"Teen oral health",{"id":851,"title":-1,"slug":852,"date":853,"name":854},37,"why-pediatric-dentistry",["Date",""],"Why pediatric dentistry",{"title":856,"slug":857,"seo":858,"sidebar":860,"no_posts":863,"body":869,"background_color":665,"border_position":870,"bottom_border":871,"header":872},"Our blog","blog",{"":319,"page_title":102,"page_description":102,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":859,"type":598},{"title":102,"description":102,"image":597},{"header":861,"content":862},"Looking for something specific?","\u003Cp>Find articles on a variety of topics. If you have specific questions, \u003Ca href=\"/contact\">contact the office\u003C/a> or come in for an appointment.\u003C/p>\n",{"content":864},{"content":319,"header":102,"subheader":102,"body":865,"buttons":866,"options":319,"text_alignment":72,"button_alignment":329,"header_color":330,"body_color":331,"hero_header":73,"smaller_subheader":73},"\u003Cp>We don’t have any blogs for this category at this time, but we would love for you to visit one of our locations to support your journey to a beautiful, healthy, and confident smile.\u003C/p>\n",[867],{"button":868},{"type":104,"label":337,"aria_label":338,"href":102,"path":103,"hash":102,"external":75,"color":328},"We know you may have lots of questions about your child’s teeth and dental care, and we’re here to provide answers and insights to help you and your child on the journey to better oral health.","bottom","seven-green",{"title":856,"body":869},[874,911,940,967,994,1020,1048,1076,1104,1131,1159,1186],{"id":875,"title":876,"slug":878,"date":879,"seo":880,"main_image":884,"content":902,"hash":102,"component_padding":906,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":907,"author":908,"categories":909,"category_names":910},6010,{"rendered":877},"Brushing teeth with a preschooler","brushing-teeth-with-a-preschooler",["Date","2024-04-16T14:23:32.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":881,"page_description":882,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":883,"type":598},"Brushing teeth with a preschooler | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Your preschooler’s mouth has been hard at work – all 20 baby teeth usually arrive by their third birthday.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":885,"id":885,"title":886,"filename":887,"filesize":888,"url":889,"link":890,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":886,"status":157,"uploaded_to":875,"date":891,"modified":891,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":892,"type":161,"subtype":893,"icon":163,"width":894,"height":894,"sizes":895},7816,"family-hug","family-hug.webp",97840,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-hug.webp","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/brushing-teeth-with-a-preschooler/family-hug/","2026-02-27 22:28:56","image/webp","webp",2000,{"thumbnail":896,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":897,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":170,"medium_large":897,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":170,"large":898,"large-width":899,"large-height":899,"1536x1536":900,"1536x1536-width":901,"1536x1536-height":901,"2048x2048":889,"2048x2048-width":894,"2048x2048-height":894},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-hug-150x150.webp","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-hug-768x768.webp","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-hug-1024x1024.webp",1024,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-hug-1536x1536.webp",1536,[903],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":905},"text","\u003Cp>I can do it myself!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you’re the parent of a preschooler, you likely hear this phrase often. From tying their shoes to grabbing a toy that’s just out of reach, preschoolers love to do things on their own. But at this age, children cannot brush their teeth properly by themselves – no matter how badly they want to. Your preschooler will need supervision and encouragement to develop this new skill over time.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Keep reading to learn more about brushing teeth with a preschooler, how to get your child to brush their teeth properly, and how Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry helps protect your preschooler’s growing smile.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Tooth development in young children\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your preschooler’s mouth has been hard at work – all 20 baby teeth usually arrive by their third birthday. Baby teeth guide your child’s permanent adult teeth into position, so it’s important to take care of them from the start.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Hopefully, you already began a “brushing” routine when your child’s first baby tooth appeared. When infants become toddlers, they graduate from a soft, damp washcloth with a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste (no bigger than a grain of rice) to a pea-sized dab on a soft children’s toothbrush.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>When brushing their teeth is part of your child’s daily routine from the beginning, it not only prevents tooth decay – the number-one dental issue for children of all ages – but helps form healthy habits that can last a lifetime.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The best way to brush your child’s teeth\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>You should always brush your child’s teeth twice a day (morning and night). Here’s an easy and effective routine you can follow.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 1 – Get in position\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>If your bathroom space allows, brush your child’s teeth in front of a mirror so you can both see their mouth more closely. Stand or sit behind them to help them feel more secure, then cup your child’s chin in your hands to let their head rest against your body.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 2 – Begin brushing\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>Angle the bristles of the toothbrush towards your child’s gum, moving it in gentle circles across their teeth. Thoroughly brush the front and back of each tooth, as well as the chewing surface. Finally, gently brush your child’s tongue.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 3 – Spit it out\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>As soon as you’re done, remind your child to spit out any remaining toothpaste instead of swallowing it. Swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can upset their stomach.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 4 – End with a smile\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>Lots of preschoolers enjoy inspecting their clean smiles in the mirror afterward. Words of praise and encouragement are always helpful!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>A teaching opportunity\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>From age three on, you can help your child develop their tooth-brushing skills by letting them take a turn before you. Once they know the routine, have them brush their teeth first. Do a follow-up brushing each time to make sure that all their teeth are properly cleaned.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Most kids are able to brush their teeth on their own between the ages of six and eight, although some take longer. Your Southmoor Pediatric Dentist can explain and demonstrate proper brushing techniques, so they’ll be ready when the time comes.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Selecting the right supplies\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>You’ve probably bought school supplies before. Well, these supplies are for your preschooler’s healthy smile!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Your child will need:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>A toothbrush\u003C/strong> – Choose a toothbrush designed specifically for children ages 2-5, which should have soft bristles, a small oval head, and a non-slip handle. Let your preschooler pick a toothbrush with a colorful design or their favorite cartoon character to make brushing even better.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Toothpaste\u003C/strong> – If your child doesn’t like the taste of toothpaste, you can start with a low-fluoride toothpaste to get them used to the flavor. Fluoride is key! Many fluoridated toothpastes for kids come in fruity or yummy flavors, like bubble gum, for extra appeal.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Other products\u003C/strong> – You may want to start using dental floss or other products, so your child learns how to clean between their teeth from a young age. Ask your Schenectady Pediatric Dentist for advice.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Encouraging your preschooler to brush their teeth\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Like toddlers, some preschoolers just don’t want to cooperate when it’s time to brush. Here are some tips you can use to get your child more excited about brushing their teeth:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Have fun! Sing a silly song, watch a tooth-brushing video, make goofy noises, or anything else that makes the time more enjoyable.\u003Cbr />\nPut up a brushing calendar in your child’s room. They can fill it with stickers each time they brush to earn a special reward.\u003Cbr />\nUse two toothbrushes at once – one for you and one for your child. Take turns brushing your child’s teeth together.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>From an oral health standpoint, remind your preschooler that brushing their teeth helps them avoid \u003Ca href=\"/why-your-child-gets-bad-breath/\">bad breath\u003C/a> (yes, even preschoolers get it!), tooth decay, cavities, and other dental problems.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Bring your preschooler to the dentist regularly\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>At this age, children should visit the dentist every six months. Regular dental check-ups give your child a chance to get to know their Schenectady Pediatric Dentist – and it gives us a chance to get to know you, too. As your child grows, we’ll work together to meet all their oral health needs. In the meantime, here are some \u003Ca href=\"/dental-hygiene-tips-tricks-for-kids/\">dental hygiene tips and tricks for kids\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule an appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your preschooler’s smile is changing every day, and Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry wants to make it the healthiest smile it can be. From the moment you walk into our office, you and your child will be treated like family. Our compassionate staff is well-trained in handling any preschooler tears or fears, and your child will get the expert dental care they deserve.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>To schedule an appointment, contact us today.\u003C/p>\n","bottom-only-full",{"hash":102,"component_padding":906,"component_margins":664},7,[826,831,836],[829,834,839],{"id":912,"title":913,"slug":915,"date":916,"seo":917,"main_image":921,"content":934,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":937,"author":908,"categories":938,"category_names":939},6008,{"rendered":914},"Brushing teeth with a toddler","brushing-teeth-with-a-toddler",["Date","2024-04-16T14:19:08.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":918,"page_description":919,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":920,"type":598},"Brushing teeth with a toddler | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Brushing your toddler’s teeth may sometimes feel like a battle – but it’s important to get your child on the right track for a healthy smile.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":922,"id":922,"title":923,"filename":924,"filesize":925,"url":926,"link":927,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":923,"status":157,"uploaded_to":912,"date":928,"modified":928,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":892,"type":161,"subtype":893,"icon":163,"width":894,"height":894,"sizes":929},7814,"family-brushing","family-brushing.webp",79470,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-brushing.webp","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/brushing-teeth-with-a-toddler/family-brushing/","2026-02-27 22:28:42",{"thumbnail":930,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":931,"medium-width":170,"medium-height":170,"medium_large":931,"medium_large-width":170,"medium_large-height":170,"large":932,"large-width":899,"large-height":899,"1536x1536":933,"1536x1536-width":901,"1536x1536-height":901,"2048x2048":926,"2048x2048-width":894,"2048x2048-height":894},"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-brushing-150x150.webp","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-brushing-768x768.webp","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-brushing-1024x1024.webp","https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-brushing-1536x1536.webp",[935],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":936},"\u003Cp>They’re called the “terrible twos” (and “terrible threes”) for a reason. We all know that toddlers can be, shall we say, stubborn. Any parent who has ever tried to brush an uncooperative toddler’s teeth would probably agree!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Brushing your toddler’s teeth may sometimes feel like a battle – but it’s one you need to continue to fight to get your child on the right track for a healthy smile. Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to explain the best ways to brush your toddler’s teeth and why starting good brushing habits now can make a world of difference.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Why brushing your toddler’s teeth is so important\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>It all comes down to one reason: preventing cavities. Young children, including toddlers, get cavities more often than most people realize.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), \u003Cstrong>28 percent of children have at least one cavity by age three\u003C/strong>. And sadly, things don’t get better with age – nearly half of all children have at least one cavity by age five.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Toddlers are especially susceptible to cavities because of their habits, from sucking their thumbs to sipping on half-filled baby bottles or sippy cups as they fall asleep. Baby bottle tooth decay is a real threat to your toddler’s oral health – in addition to cavities, it can cause pain, infection, premature tooth loss, poor eating habits, speech issues, and more.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The fluoride in toothpaste plays a big role in preventing cavities and tooth decay from forming in your little one’s mouth. The AAP recommends using a tiny dab of fluoridated toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) every day as soon as your baby’s teeth begin to come in.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>A timeline of dental health milestones\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Here’s a brief timeline to help give your child great dental care at every age, including age-appropriate dental visits and cleaning habits:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>From birth\u003C/strong> – Start by wiping your baby’s gums with a soft, damp washcloth twice a day. As soon as their first tooth erupts, use a soft infant toothbrush or washcloth to brush their teeth with that rice-sized dab of toothpaste.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>First dental visit\u003C/strong> – The American Dental Association and Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry both recommend bringing your child for their first dental visit at age one.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Full set of baby teeth\u003C/strong> – From age one to three, your child’s mouth will be busy! Most children have all 20 baby teeth by their third birthday. During this time, be sure to visit Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry twice a year for routine cleanings and exams. You can upgrade to a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste once your child reaches age three.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Some children are ready to brush their teeth on their own by age six, while others need supervision for a year or two longer (especially if there are any signs of tooth decay). Your Schenectady pediatric dentist can help identify if your child is ready to take over brushing themselves.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Make brushing more fun\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>While we’d all love for toddlers to sit still, open their mouths wide, and say “Ahh!” at brushing time, that’s not often the case. These tips can help make brushing more fun if your toddler refuses or is going through the teething stage:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Let your child “brush” their favorite stuffed animal or doll’s teeth (without toothpaste, of course) while you brush theirs.\u003Cbr />\nPlay or sing a song that lasts about two minutes – when the song’s over, so is brushing!\u003Cbr />\nUse a sticker chart or other incentives to celebrate each time your toddler cooperates while brushing their teeth.\u003Cbr />\nFor more advice on how to get your toddler to brush their teeth, ask your Schenectady pediatric dentist.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Brushing techniques for toddlers\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Ready to get started? Here’s a step-by-step description of how to brush your toddler’s teeth:\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 1 – Have the right supplies\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>You’ll need a soft child-size toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Letting your child pick a toothbrush with their favorite color or favorite cartoon character can add some extra excitement. They may also want to try a fun toothpaste flavor, like bubble gum. Any flavor is fine as long as the toothpaste is fluoridated.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 2 – Prepare your toddler for what’s going to happen\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>There are lots of creative ways to prepare your toddler for brushing their teeth, such as watching a kid-friendly video about healthy dental habits or showing them how to brush on their favorite stuffed animal or doll.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 3 – Get the toothbrush ready\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>If your toddler is under the age of three, you’ll need a tiny dab about the size of a grain of rice. Once they turn three, you can use a pea-sized dab every time you brush. Be sure to tell your child not to swallow the toothpaste, which can upset their stomach.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 4 – Time to brush\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>Your toddler may want to brush their own teeth first, especially if they’re extra stubborn or independent. Make sure you supervise them while they brush and then take over when they’re done. Gently brush the surface of all their teeth, including the “hidden” ones in back.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch3>Step 5 – Spit out any leftover toothpaste\u003C/h3>\n\u003Cp>Swallowing a tiny dab of fluoride toothpaste is fairly harmless. But once your toddler begins using more, swallowing toothpaste could give them an upset stomach. Show your child how to spit out excess toothpaste – just don’t forget to remind them to aim for the sink.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>That’s it! You’re all done until the next brushing.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule an appointment for your toddler today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The caring team at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is ready to give your child a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. The toddler years are crucial, starting with their \u003Ca href=\"/when-should-i-take-my-child-for-their-first-dental-appointment/\">first dental appointment at age one\u003C/a>. With proper brushing techniques and quality care from our pediatric dental experts, we’ll help your toddler get the best possible start.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>To schedule your appointment, contact Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,836,841],[829,839,844],{"id":941,"title":942,"slug":944,"date":945,"seo":946,"main_image":950,"content":961,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":964,"author":908,"categories":965,"category_names":966},6006,{"rendered":943},"What is enamel hypoplasia?","what-is-enamel-hypoplasia",["Date","2024-04-16T14:13:55.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":947,"page_description":948,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":949,"type":598},"What is enamel hypoplasia? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Enamel hypoplasia is an enamel defect that only occurs while teeth are developing.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":951,"id":951,"title":952,"filename":953,"filesize":954,"url":955,"link":956,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":952,"status":157,"uploaded_to":941,"date":957,"modified":958,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":959},7338,"blog-enamel-hypoplasia","blog-enamel-hypoplasia.jpg",24562,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-enamel-hypoplasia.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/what-is-enamel-hypoplasia/blog-enamel-hypoplasia/","2025-07-28 19:58:25","2025-07-28 20:56:48",{"thumbnail":960,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":955,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":955,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":955,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":955,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":955,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-enamel-hypoplasia-150x150.jpg",[962],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":963},"\u003Cp>Enamel what? If this dental term is unfamiliar to you, consider yourself in good company with most parents.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your child’s teeth – think of it as a shield that helps keep their teeth strong and healthy. When your child’s enamel is too thin (or when they don’t have enough of it), their teeth become far more vulnerable to decay and cavities.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Enamel hypoplasia is an enamel defect that only occurs while teeth are developing. However, as we age, it can affect both baby teeth and permanent teeth. Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to explain the causes and signs of enamel hypoplasia, the treatment options we may suggest, and how you can help prevent it.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Causes of enamel hypoplasia\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The many potential causes of enamel hypoplasia fall into two main categories: hereditary (you’re born with it) and environmental (the condition is caused by other factors).\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Hereditary enamel hypoplasia\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Hereditary enamel hypoplasia is caused by an inherited genetic defect that impacts the formation of a child’s teeth. Most of the hereditary factors that lead to enamel hypoplasia involve relatively rare genetic disorders, such as:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Amelogenesis imperfecta (also known as congenital enamel hypoplasia)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Ellis-van Creveld syndrome\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Usher syndrome\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Seckel syndrome\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Treacher Collins syndrome\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Because the foundation of the enamel on a child’s baby teeth begins in utero, sometimes enamel hypoplasia develops before the child is even born. Enamel hypoplasia can result from various prenatal issues, including:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Lack of prenatal care\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Maternal drug use or smoking\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Maternal vitamin D deficiency\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Gestational diabetes\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Premature birth or low birth weight\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Environmental enamel hypoplasia\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>After birth, there are many environmental factors that can increase your child’s risk of enamel hypoplasia as they grow, including:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Dental trauma, especially when teeth are newly developing\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Malnutrition\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Vitamin A, C, or D deficiency\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Calcium deficiency\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Bacterial and viral infections\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Jaundice\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Celiac disease\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Diabetes\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Ingesting large amounts of fluoride can also cause enamel hypoplasia – one of many reasons why Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry encourages parents to supervise their child’s brushing until they can manage the task on their own.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>It’s all about timing\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The precise teeth affected by enamel hypoplasia will depend on the cause and timing of the disturbance in enamel development. For instance, the enamel on a child’s permanent front teeth typically forms by the age of five. However, the enamel on a child’s back molars does not form for eight years or more after birth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If a child experiences dental trauma or contracts an infection at the age of seven, their front teeth probably won’t be affected – but their back molars might be.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Signs of enamel hypoplasia\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Some signs of enamel hypoplasia are obvious, while others are more difficult to detect. If your child has enamel hypoplasia, you may see:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>White spots\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Yellow or brown staining\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Tiny pits or grooves\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Chipped or missing enamel (or in the most severe cases, no enamel at all)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Because enamel helps protect the sensitive pulp of your child’s teeth, enamel hypoplasia can be painful. The thinner the enamel is, the more sensitive their teeth will be, especially to heat or cold. Your child may also have a large amount of cavities.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Your Schenectady pediatric dentist will check for any indication of enamel hypoplasia during routine cleanings. However, if you notice any of these signs between cleanings, contact our office right away so we can begin treatment.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Treatment for enamel hypoplasia\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Treatment for enamel hypoplasia typically depends on the severity of the condition. For milder cases, your Schenectady pediatric dentist may recommend normal maintenance and care with special attention given to the affected area to avoid tooth decay.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Some cases may require cosmetic adjustments, such as professional bleaching or whitening, to eliminate discoloration and other aesthetic concerns.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>For more severe cases, or when enamel hypoplasia creates significant bite issues, your smile in motion pediatric dentist may suggest a sealant, filling, or crown to cover and help restore the shape of affected teeth. As a last resort, highly damaged teeth may need to be removed.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Preventing enamel hypoplasia\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Although nothing can be done to prevent hereditary enamel hypoplasia, you can help reduce the environmental causes.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Adding vitamin A, C, and D supplements to your child’s diet can help strengthen their developing teeth. Make sure they drink plenty of milk and eat green, leafy vegetables as well.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>And of course, we’ll share the same advice that we do with all our patients – be diligent about brushing and flossing regularly, and minimize your child’s consumption of cavity-causing foods and drinks.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Don’t delay – schedule an appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If you suspect that your child may have enamel hypoplasia, contact Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry immediately. The earlier that enamel hypoplasia is confirmed, the more effectively we can treat it.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, our patient-centered approach means that we do whatever we can to make you and your child feel comfortable and well cared for, especially when they’re facing dental issues. We take smiles very seriously around here! Starting from age one, you can count on Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry to meet all your oral health needs.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Call or visit us online to schedule an appointment today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,836],[829,839],{"id":968,"title":969,"slug":971,"date":972,"seo":973,"main_image":977,"content":988,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":991,"author":908,"categories":992,"category_names":993},6001,{"rendered":970},"What causes tooth decay in kids?","what-causes-tooth-decay-in-kids",["Date","2024-04-16T13:12:55.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":974,"page_description":975,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":976,"type":598},"What causes tooth decay in kids? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Also known as tooth decay, cavities are one of the most common dental problems in toddlers, children, and teens",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":978,"id":978,"title":979,"filename":980,"filesize":981,"url":982,"link":983,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":979,"status":157,"uploaded_to":968,"date":984,"modified":985,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":986},7335,"blog-decay-in-kids","blog-decay-in-kids.jpg",24365,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-decay-in-kids.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/what-causes-tooth-decay-in-kids/blog-decay-in-kids/","2025-07-28 19:58:23","2025-07-28 20:01:07",{"thumbnail":987,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":982,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":982,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":982,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":982,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":982,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-decay-in-kids-150x150.jpg",[989],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":990},"\u003Cp>It’s the news that no parent ever wants to hear from their child’s dentist: we found a cavity.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Also known as tooth decay, cavities are one of the most common dental problems in toddlers, children, and teens. Even infants can get them! And despite popular belief, tooth decay on baby teeth can have an impact on your child’s dental health for years, long after they fall out.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Keep reading to learn what causes tooth decay in kids, how to prevent it, and how the pediatric specialists at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry can help.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What is tooth decay?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Tooth decay or cavities are permanently damaged areas in the hard surface of your child’s teeth that become tiny holes or openings. Anyone who has teeth can get tooth decay.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Tooth decay occurs when the natural sugars in drinks and food we consume are changed into acid by the bacteria that is already present in our mouths. This acid dissolves the outer part of our teeth, causing them to decay.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>For kids and adults alike, regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are the best protection against developing tooth decay. Tooth decay happens most frequently in the back teeth, which have lots of nooks and crannies that can collect food particles and are harder to clean.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What causes tooth decay in infants?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Baby teeth are tiny but important–if one is lost too early, other baby teeth may move and not leave enough room for adult teeth to come in.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Tooth decay might first appear as white spots on your baby’s gum line, just above their upper front teeth. These spots can be difficult to see without proper equipment –an excellent reason to bring your child to Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry for their first visit at age one, as recommended.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The most common cause of tooth decay in infants is putting them to bed with a bottle of formula, milk, juice, soda, or any other sugary drink. Unless it is mealtime, you should never give them anything but water to drink from their bottle during the day or at night.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Parents can also pass the bacteria that causes tooth decay to their baby through their own saliva – for example, by cleaning their baby’s pacifier in their mouth or testing food on their baby’s spoon before using it.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Remember: even if your baby doesn’t have teeth yet, their mouth still has germs. Wipe their gums with a soft washcloth after each feeding. Once teeth are present, gently brush their teeth twice a day with a pea-size amount of toothpaste to prevent tooth decay.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What causes tooth decay in kids?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Tooth decay often develops when toddlers and children don’t properly brush their teeth. Your child should brush for at least two minutes, twice a day. Keep in mind that children usually cannot brush well by themselves until they are at least six years old–your Schenectady pediatric dentist will teach you and your child the proper technique for your child’s age, so you can supervise their brushing until they’re old enough to do it right.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Some children also floss their teeth incorrectly, or not at all. Parents, you’ll need to step in to help with this as well. Cavities can easily develop when food particles are left between your child’s teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Diet also plays a huge role in causing tooth decay in kids. Your child has a much higher risk if they eat a lot of sugary or starchy foods that are high in carbohydrates and tend to cling to teeth, such as:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Ice cream\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Cake\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Cookies\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Candy\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Potato chips\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Crackers\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Sugary cereal\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>The same goes for sugary drinks. When your child sips soda, juice, or other acidic drinks throughout the day, it helps create a continual acid bath over their teeth – and you can guess what comes next. Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry recommends limiting all sugary drinks and making sure that your child brushes and flosses well whenever they consume them.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What are the consequences of tooth decay?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Because tooth decay doesn’t always cause pain (at least at first), recognizing that your child has a cavity can be difficult. In the beginning, your child may have no symptoms at all. But as tooth decay grows, they may experience:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Tooth sensitivity\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Mouth swelling\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Pain when biting\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Holes in their teeth\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>White spots or dark spots on their teeth\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Left untreated, tooth decay will get worse and can affect deeper layers of your child’s teeth–eventually leading to severe pain, difficulty eating or chewing, damaged or broken teeth, or tooth loss.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>In rare cases, a tooth abscess (a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection) can form and even become life-threatening.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What should you do if you expect tooth decay?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>That’s easy–bring your child to Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry for an appointment! Every time you visit Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we’ll thoroughly examine your child’s mouth for any signs of tooth decay and professionally clean your child’s teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Despite the name, most children still have some “baby” teeth until age 12-13. If your child’s baby teeth have serious decay, their permanent teeth can be damaged before they even begin to surface, making it extremely important to bring your child in every six months for their dental checkup and cleanings. Of course, we want to take good care of their permanent teeth as well.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Early prevention is key, and our pediatric dentists are here to help keep your child’s teeth as clean and healthy as possible.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>How does Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry treat tooth decay?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If we discover tooth decay at your child’s visit, all of your treatment options will be discussed with you in detail. These include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Dental fillings\u003C/strong> – White fillings are an effective treatment for small to moderate-sized cavities on 1-2 surfaces of the tooth. At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we only use BPA-free filling materials.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Dental crowns\u003C/strong> – If your child’s tooth is severely decayed or at high risk of developing a second cavity, a dental crown may be required. Crowns help cover, strengthen, and protect the remaining tooth from any further damage.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Baby root canals\u003C/strong> – Deep cavities can extend into the nerve of your child’s tooth. Baby root canals (also known as nerve treatments) help prevent pain and lower the risk of infection.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Tooth extractions\u003C/strong> – If your child’s tooth is beyond repair, our pediatric dentists can remove it safely.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Got tooth decay? Don’t delay!\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>When it comes to tooth decay in kids, time is of the essence–and your child’s smile is too important to wait. To learn more about preventing and treating tooth decay, \u003Ca href=\"/contact\">schedule an appointment\u003C/a> with Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry today. Our pediatric specialists help kids of all ages, starting at age one.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,831,836,841],[829,834,839,844],{"id":995,"title":996,"slug":998,"date":999,"seo":1000,"main_image":1004,"content":1014,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1017,"author":908,"categories":1018,"category_names":1019},5998,{"rendered":997},"When should I take my child for their first dental appointment?","when-should-i-take-my-child-for-their-first-dental-appointment",["Date","2024-04-16T13:07:07.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1001,"page_description":1002,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1003,"type":598},"When should I take my child for their first dental appointment? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","One of the best parts of being a parent is experiencing all the “firsts”–the first smile, the first word, and before you know it, the first birthday.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1005,"id":1005,"title":1006,"filename":1007,"filesize":1008,"url":1009,"link":1010,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1006,"status":157,"uploaded_to":995,"date":957,"modified":1011,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1012},7339,"blog-first-dental-appointment","blog-first-dental-appointment.jpg",28336,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-first-dental-appointment.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/when-should-i-take-my-child-for-their-first-dental-appointment/blog-first-dental-appointment/","2025-07-28 21:01:06",{"thumbnail":1013,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1009,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1009,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1009,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1009,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1009,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-first-dental-appointment-150x150.jpg",[1015],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1016},"\u003Cp>One of the best parts of being a parent is experiencing all the “firsts”–the first smile, the first word, and before you know it, the first birthday.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>When your child hits this special milestone, be sure to make their first dental appointment part of the tradition as well. After the birthday cake is smashed and the “Happy 1st Birthday” banner comes down, it’s time to visit Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Isn’t age one too early?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Absolutely not. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, all kids should see a dentist within six months of their first tooth coming in or when they turn one–whichever comes first.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>While every child develops at their own pace, most kids will have somewhere between 2-4 teeth by their first birthday. If your child has less, that’s okay. The age one visit is still essential to ensure that your child doesn’t have any signs of tooth or gum decay and that their teeth are developing properly.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Consider this: in less than two years (by age three), your child will likely have all their baby teeth already. There will be some immense growth and change in your child’s mouth during their first years of life, so let’s start them off on the right path.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What to expect at the age one appointment\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we want to make your child’s first trip to the dentist as fun and memorable as we can. Our goal is to have this visit be the start of healthy oral health habits that last a lifetime.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Of course, we know that your one-year-old probably won’t remember this first visit. But you will–and this is where the relationship with your pediatric dentist begins.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Our doctors and team take extra care to make sure that you and your child are comfortable throughout their visit. During the appointment, we will:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Gently clean and examine your child’s teeth\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Check your child’s mouth for any signs of decay\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Show you how to clean your child’s teeth at home (the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends using a very small drop of \u003Ca href=\"/five-facts-about-fluoride-for-kids/\">fluoride–about the size of a grain of rice–on a soft toothbrush\u003C/a>)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Share any concerns about your child’s oral development\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Answer any questions you may have\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Sitting knee-to-knee\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your one-year-old may become fussy or shed a tear or two during their exam, which is probably harder on the parent than anyone else! Don’t worry–at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we are fully prepared for tears and have a few tricks up our sleeves to stop them! That’s also why we offer knee-to-knee exams for patients (and parents) who aren’t ready for the dentist chair just yet.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you wish, you can sit knee-to-knee with the doctor, allowing your child to comfortably lay back between the two of you in a safe and nurturing environment. If your child still struggles, our team is well-trained to handle their tears with compassion and understanding. This is one of many reasons why we recommend having your child visit a pediatric dentist over a general or family dentist, especially at such a young age.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The perks of a pediatric dentist\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>After graduating from dental school, pediatric dentists complete an additional 2-3 years of specialized training including courses in child psychology and child development. Just as pediatricians understand the medical needs of children, pediatric dentists understand the dental needs of children. In fact, you can think of Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry as pediatricians for your child’s teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>From the moment your child is born, their mouth is constantly growing and changing. Pediatric dentists are trained to constantly evaluate these changes and treat any developing issues that could affect them in the future. Cavities and tooth decay are a problem at any age but especially before age six, so we keep a close eye out for those as well.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Beyond our dental expertise, perhaps the greatest benefit of visiting a pediatric dentist is our kid expertise. We totally get kids, and we understand how they think and feel. At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, kids are always treated with patience, empathy, and joy in an environment designed to make visiting the dentist fun!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Your child’s early visits to the dentist also set the tone for how they view their oral health – so it’s very important that we get it right. As the saying goes, we only get one chance to make a first impression. And we want that impression to last, so your child feels positive about caring for their smile for years to come.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule your child’s appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your child’s first year of life will likely fly by. Before you know it, it will be time to make their first dental appointment. When that day comes, Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here for you.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>We’re so excited to meet you! To schedule an appointment, \u003Ca href=\"/contact\">contact us today\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,836,841],[829,839,844],{"id":1021,"title":1022,"slug":1024,"date":1025,"seo":1026,"main_image":1030,"content":1042,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1045,"author":908,"categories":1046,"category_names":1047},5991,{"rendered":1023},"The benefits of dental sealants","the-benefits-of-dental-sealants",["Date","2024-04-16T12:54:34.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1027,"page_description":1028,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1029,"type":598},"The benefits of dental sealants | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","We all know that brushing and flossing are the best ways to prevent cavities, but it’s not always easy to clean every tiny nook and cranny especially for kids",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1031,"id":1031,"title":1032,"filename":1033,"filesize":1034,"url":1035,"link":1036,"alt":1037,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1032,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1021,"date":1038,"modified":1039,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1040},7337,"blog-dental-sealants","blog-dental-sealants.jpg",21856,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-dental-sealants.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/the-benefits-of-dental-sealants/blog-dental-sealants/","Toddler with tooth brush","2025-07-28 19:58:24","2025-07-28 20:10:18",{"thumbnail":1041,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1035,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1035,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1035,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1035,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1035,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-dental-sealants-150x150.jpg",[1043],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1044},"\u003Cp>We all know that brushing and flossing are the best ways to prevent cavities, but it’s not always easy to clean every tiny nook and cranny in your mouth–especially for young kids. Molars (back teeth) are usually the toughest to clean, often becoming a favorite place for cavity-causing bacteria to hide.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you could give your child’s teeth an extra barrier of protection, would you? Dental sealants make it possible, literally sealing out food particles and plaque to help fight cavities and tooth decay. Dental sealants are one of several methods used by the pediatric dental experts at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry to keep your child’s teeth as clean and healthy as possible.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Here’s everything you never knew you needed to know about dental sealants, including the many benefits they provide and how they can impact your child’s long-term oral health.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The stats behind sealants\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>These numbers speak for themselves. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that school-age children without dental sealants have almost three times more cavities than children with sealants. Sealants have also been shown to reduce the risk of decay in molars – those difficult-to-reach back teeth – by nearly 80%.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What are dental sealants?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth (usually premolars and molars) to prevent future tooth decay. The sealant bonds into the grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over each tooth’s enamel.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>When the bacteria that lives in your child’s mouth meets leftover food particles, they produce acids that can create cavities. With dental sealants, these bits of food are shielded from your child’s teeth, preventing the acids that lead to tooth decay and other dental issues.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Forget Captain America’s shield–dental sealants are the real thing!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Who should get dental sealants?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Both children and adults can benefit from dental sealants, but the earlier you get them, the better. Your child will get their first molars around age six and their second molars around age 12. Sealing these teeth as soon as they come in can help your child stay cavity-free from the start, saving dollars and drilling in the long run.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>In some cases, dental sealants may be appropriate for baby teeth that have deep depressions and grooves. Because your child’s baby teeth play such a huge role in holding the correct spacing for their permanent teeth, it’s important to keep them healthy–even though they will eventually fall out.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Does your child already have signs of tooth decay? Dental sealants can even be used on teeth with early decay to prevent further damage, especially clear sealants that allow your dentist to confirm they are doing their job.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>How dental sealants are applied\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Getting dental sealants is a quick and painless process. First, your Schenectady pediatric dentist will clean and dry your child’s tooth, then apply a gel that roughens the tooth’s surface to strengthen the bond between the tooth and the sealant.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>After a few seconds, your dentist will rinse off the gel and dry the tooth again before applying the sealant. To finish, the dentist uses a special blue light that hardens the sealant in about a minute or less.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Dental sealants do a lot of good\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Dental sealants are used most frequently in children, although there are many benefits for patients of any age:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Dental sealants are a proactive and affordable way to prevent cavities\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Dental sealants are easy to apply and take only a minute or two to dry\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Protection of the tooth begins immediately\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Dental sealants are white or clear in color, making them virtually invisible when talking or smiling\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Dental sealants can withstand normal chewing and often last several years before reapplication is needed\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Dental sealants can protect your child’s teeth from decay for up to 10 years, but they should be checked for chipping or wearing at regular dental visits. Your Schenectady pediatric dentist can replace dental sealants as necessary.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Seal it up! Make an appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>To learn more about dental sealants, we invite you to become part of the Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry family. Because that’s exactly how we treat our patients–like family.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we do everything we can to create a positive experience for you and your child. As the first pediatric dentist in Denver, you can trust Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry to provide the high-quality dental care your child deserves. Come see what our patient-centered approach is all about! To schedule an appointment, contact us today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,836],[829,839],{"id":1049,"title":1050,"slug":1052,"date":1053,"seo":1054,"main_image":1058,"content":1069,"hash":102,"component_padding":1072,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1073,"author":908,"categories":1074,"category_names":1075},5987,{"rendered":1051},"Why your child gets bad breath","why-your-child-gets-bad-breath",["Date","2024-04-16T11:54:54.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1055,"page_description":1056,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1057,"type":598},"Why your child gets bad breath | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Bad breath (also known as halitosis) is an issue that can occur at any age and can be improved.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1059,"id":1059,"title":1060,"filename":1061,"filesize":1062,"url":1063,"link":1064,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1060,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1049,"date":1065,"modified":1066,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1067},7331,"blog-bad-breathe","blog-bad-breathe.jpg",30969,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-bad-breathe.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/why-your-child-gets-bad-breath/blog-bad-breathe/","2025-07-28 19:58:20","2025-07-28 20:05:18",{"thumbnail":1068,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1063,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1063,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1063,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1063,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1063,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-bad-breathe-150x150.jpg",[1070],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1071},"\u003Cp>Bad breath (also known as halitosis) is an issue that can occur at any age and can be improved. Even kiddos who still get visits from the Tooth Fairy can practically knock you out with a whiff of their bad breath. And the odors get worse as they get older–just ask any parent of a teenager!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>What causes halitosis in children? And how do you fix bad breath in children? Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to help kids of all ages achieve healthy smiles (and smells) as they grow up.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>“My child has bad breath all the time”\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>It’s a phrase uttered by frustrated and concerned parents everywhere. If your child has bad breath all the time, it could be due to one of many reasons.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Visiting a Schenectady board-certified pediatric dentist can help pinpoint the cause of your child’s bad breath, especially if it is related to poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or other dental concerns.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>You might be surprised to learn what causes halitosis in children–the list is quite extensive. Here are some of the most common reasons why children get bad breath.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Eating stinky food\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Let’s get the most obvious reason out of the way first. If your child regularly eats food with strong odors–such as garlic, onions, or smelly cheeses–these odors tend to linger, sometimes for hours afterward. Eating pungent foods less often can be an easy way to resolve their halitosis issues.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Too much junk food\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>There is a proven link between bad breath and higher consumption of junk food like candy and potato chips, which can become trapped between your child’s teeth. Parents have so many good reasons to limit junk food and encourage healthy eating–now you can add better-smelling breath to the list!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Poor oral hygiene\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Poor oral hygiene is the most frequent reason why children have bad breath. If kids don’t brush or floss their teeth or tongue often enough–or effectively enough–food particles and plaque remain in their mouth, creating smelly bacteria that can affect their breath. This same bacteria also attaches to skin cells on the tongue if they do not brush their tongue properly.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Fresh breath is one of the countless reasons why oral hygiene instructions for a child are so important. In addition to brushing and flossing, using a tongue scraper may be recommended by your Schenectady pediatric dentist.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Morning breath\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Yes, even kids get morning breath. The culprit is once again–you guessed it–bacteria. Everyone has odor-causing bacteria in their mouth, regardless of their age or how many teeth they have. Our saliva production slows down as we sleep, so fewer bacteria get washed away.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Gum disease and other dental concerns\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If plaque builds up between your child’s teeth or under their gum line, their gums may become infected, leading to halitosis. The same is true for cavities, loose fillings, abscessed teeth, or any other type of infection in your child’s mouth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Scheduling regular visits at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry starting at age one can help keep your child’s teeth, gums, and breath in the best possible shape.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Dry mouth\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Dry mouth causes bad breath in kids the same way that morning breath does. Because their mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva, food particles and bacteria don’t get washed away. The result: stinky breath.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Mouth breathing\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Kids typically breathe through their mouths when they have a stuffy nose. This type of halitosis is temporary and should go away when their congestion clears up. If your child has chronic sinus problems or regularly breathes or sleeps with their mouth open, their bad breath may continue.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Sinus infections\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Sinus infections can cause bad breath in people of all ages. When mucus drips down the back of your child’s throat and sits on their tongue, bacteria go on a feeding frenzy, releasing foul-smelling odors.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Large tonsils\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If your child has large tonsils or tonsils with deep pits, everything from oral and nasal secretions to food particles can get trapped. Tonsil stones can also develop in the pits, which produce an unpleasant smell as they decompose.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Other health conditions\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Don’t worry, bad breath doesn’t necessarily mean there is something wrong with your child. But once your board-certified Schenectady pediatric dentist has ruled out other causes of halitosis, you may want to visit your pediatrician to be sure.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>How to fix bad breath in children\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Aside from regular dentist visits, there are many other things you can do to help keep your child’s breath smelling fresh. Some oral hygiene instructions for children include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Make sure your child brushes and flosses their teeth and tongue at least twice a day (once after breakfast and once before bedtime).\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Brush for at least two minutes each time. You can use a fun video, song, or app to make sure your child brushes long enough. Young children will likely need your help!\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Don’t forget your child’s tongue, especially if it looks white instead of pink. Brushing their tongue twice a day and/or in between meals can help prevent bad breath.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Drink plenty of water each day to ward off dry mouth.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Kick-start your child’s saliva production each day by eating breakfast and drinking fluids (preferably water or milk instead of sugary juices).\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Feed your child raw fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber, such as apples and carrots. Not only are these foods healthy, but they help scrape away odorous bacteria as your child eats them.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Replace your child’s toothbrush every 2-3 months to keep it clean.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>(X)ylitol marks the spot\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>What kid doesn’t like chewing gum? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the suggested age for chewing gum is four years old and up. It might be hard to imagine a pediatric dentist recommending any type of gum, but xylitol gum is the exception.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Xylitol is a natural sugar that does not feed harmful bacteria like other sugars–and fewer bacteria means a fresher-smelling mouth. Studies have shown that xylitol can also reduce tooth decay and even help reverse the decay by replacing the minerals in tooth enamel.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule an appointment at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>We understand that some parents may feel uncomfortable telling their child they have bad breath, but halitosis is a component of oral health just like any other. You can count on our friendly and experienced team to treat your child with care and compassion, especially if the smell of their breath is a sensitive topic.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>By discovering the source of their halitosis and sharing oral hygiene instructions for children, the Schenectady team can give your child their best chance for a fantastic smile–and fresh breath to match. Contact us today!\u003C/p>\n","bottom-only-double",{"hash":102,"component_padding":1072,"component_margins":664},[826,831,836],[829,834,839],{"id":1077,"title":1078,"slug":1080,"date":1081,"seo":1082,"main_image":1086,"content":1098,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1101,"author":908,"categories":1102,"category_names":1103},5985,{"rendered":1079},"Will thumb-sucking or using a pacifier hurt my child’s teeth?","will-thumb-sucking-or-using-a-pacifier-hurt-my-childs-teeth",["Date","2024-04-16T11:44:14.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1083,"page_description":1084,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1085,"type":598},"Will thumb-sucking or using a pacifier hurt my child’s teeth? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","If you rarely see your child without their thumb or a pacifier in their mouth, this is the blog for you.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1087,"id":1087,"title":1088,"filename":1089,"filesize":1090,"url":1091,"link":1092,"alt":1093,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1088,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1077,"date":1094,"modified":1095,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1096},7345,"blog-thumb-sucking-pacifier","blog-thumb-sucking-pacifier.jpg",27040,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-thumb-sucking-pacifier.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/will-thumb-sucking-or-using-a-pacifier-hurt-my-childs-teeth/blog-thumb-sucking-pacifier/","Boy in the leaves","2025-07-28 19:58:30","2025-07-28 21:13:54",{"thumbnail":1097,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1091,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1091,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1091,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1091,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1091,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-thumb-sucking-pacifier-150x150.jpg",[1099],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1100},"\u003Cp>If you rarely see your child without their thumb or a pacifier in their mouth, this is the blog for you.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>It’s adorable to see a baby blissfully sucking on a pacifier or a toddler sucking their thumb as they sleep. But like many parents, you may be concerned about your child’s thumb-sucking or pacifier use. Is thumb sucking harmful? At what age should pacifier use stop? And what will happen if it doesn’t? Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to guide you and your little one through this stage that so many parents experience.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>A soothing way to feel secure\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Sucking is a natural reflex that begins before your child is even born–many babies suck their thumb or other fingers while they are in the womb. The act of sucking makes infants and young children feel secure and happy, especially if they are in an unfamiliar or stressful environment.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>For many children, sucking is a major source of comfort, just like a blanket or a stuffed animal might be. Sucking is also a relaxing activity that can help induce sleep–that’s why you’re more likely to see your child sucking on their pacifier or thumb when they are tired.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The power of the pacifier\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Pacifiers often get a bad reputation because of potential dental issues, but they do have some major benefits–especially for exhausted parents.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>A way for babies to self-soothe:\u003C/strong> Emphasis is on the word “self” here! A pacifier can help relax your baby and give you a much-needed break to eat a quick meal or just take a moment to sit and breathe.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Makes weaning easier:\u003C/strong> If you’re ready to wean your baby off breastfeeding, using a pacifier can help make the process easier for your little one. On the flip side, be sure to wait to introduce a pacifier to a newborn baby until your nursing routine is fully established (this usually takes 3-4 weeks).\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Lowers the risk of SIDS:\u003C/strong> Pacifier use is linked to a significant reduction in the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to put their infants to bed with a pacifier, although it should never be attached to the baby’s clothing.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>The challenge with thumb-sucking\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>It’s totally normal and safe for your child to suck their thumb, depending on their age and the intensity of their habit. Thumb-sucking gives them the same feelings of relaxation and security. However, thumb-sucking presents a unique challenge that pacifiers don’t–you can’t take away your child’s thumb! That’s another reason why it’s so important to know about the potential dental issues these habits can cause.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>When and why to stop the sucking\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Most children stop using a pacifier or sucking their thumb between the ages of two and four with no harm to their teeth or jaws. These habits need to stop \u003Cstrong>before the eruption of their permanent teeth\u003C/strong> to help avoid a variety of dental issues.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The intensity of the sucking is another factor that can make a difference. If your child rests their thumb passively in their mouth, they’re less likely to have problems than a child who sucks their thumb more vigorously.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Unfortunately, prolonged pacifier use and/or thumb-sucking can force your child’s teeth to move and even change the shape of the roof of their mouth, potentially causing:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Improper mouth growth\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>A misaligned bite, such as overbite or crossbite\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Speech problems\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Cavities or gum loss, especially if the pacifier is dipped into something sweet to encourage a baby to use it\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>If you begin to notice changes in your child’s primary teeth or are concerned about your child’s pacifier use or thumb-sucking, contact your pediatric dentist.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>How to end these habits for good\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>When the time is right, there are many things you can do at home to help your child say goodbye to pacifier use and thumb-sucking:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Try to eliminate the pacifier when your baby doesn’t really need to suck. Offer another form of stimulation–such as a mobile, rattle, or teething ring–or distract them by playing.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Toddlers are old enough to participate in breaking their pacifier habit. Set a day when the “pacifier fairy” will come take all their pacifiers to another baby and leave a new comfort item (perhaps a stuffed animal or blanket) in their place.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>For thumb-suckers, put a bandage on their thumb during the day and a sock over their hand at night to discourage sucking.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Instead of scolding your child for sucking their thumb, offer them praise and rewards when they don’t. Positive encouragement goes a long way.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Children often suck on a pacifier or their thumb when they’re feeling insecure. Focus on correcting the cause of their anxiety and finding other ways to comfort them.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>If none of this works, your child’s dentist or pediatrician can prescribe a mouth appliance or a medication that is applied to the thumb to prevent sucking.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule your appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we understand kids–and that includes their instinctual need to soothe themselves by sucking. We see lots of former and current pacifier users and thumb-suckers every day. You can count on our team to treat you and your child with compassion and kindness as you both get through this stage of life. Contact us for an appointment today!\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,841],[829,844],{"id":1105,"title":1106,"slug":1108,"date":1109,"seo":1110,"main_image":1113,"content":1125,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1128,"author":908,"categories":1129,"category_names":1130},5981,{"rendered":1107},"Are gummy vitamins safe for my child’s teeth?","are-gummy-vitamins-safe-for-my-childs-teeth",["Date","2024-04-16T11:39:11.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1111,"page_description":102,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1112,"type":598},"Are gummy vitamins safe for my child’s teeth? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1114,"id":1114,"title":1115,"filename":1116,"filesize":1117,"url":1118,"link":1119,"alt":1120,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1115,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1105,"date":1121,"modified":1122,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1123},7341,"blog-gummy-vitamins","blog-gummy-vitamins.jpg",29912,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-gummy-vitamins.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/are-gummy-vitamins-safe-for-my-childs-teeth/blog-gummy-vitamins/","Brother and sister smiling","2025-07-28 19:58:27","2025-07-28 21:03:47",{"thumbnail":1124,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1118,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1118,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1118,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1118,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1118,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-gummy-vitamins-150x150.jpg",[1126],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1127},"\u003Cp>It’s hard to imagine a vitamin that isn’t beneficial for kids and their growing bodies. All vitamins are good, right? In theory, yes–vitamins provide essential nutrients that can boost your child’s growth and development. The key is what type of vitamin you choose to give them.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Gummy vitamins, with their brightly colored packaging, sweet taste, and candy-like appearance, are a huge hit with kids. Unfortunately, gummy vitamins also contribute to overall sugar consumption in your child’s diet and can wreak havoc on their tooth enamel.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Here’s a recap of everything you need to know about gummy vitamins and what vitamin alternatives are better for your child’s teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>A fun alternative to plain vitamins\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Gummy vitamins have been available for decades, since vitamin companies discovered this new way to make vitamin consumption more appealing to kids. And it’s understandable–even some adults struggle to swallow large non-chewable vitamins, many of which still have an unpleasant aftertaste. Today, kids can choose from colorful gummy vitamins shaped like superheroes, cartoon characters, their favorite fruits, and more. Best of all, they taste like candy!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>So, what’s not to love about gummy vitamins? Quite a lot, actually. But before we get into the reasons why gummy vitamins aren’t very tooth-friendly, let’s talk about what they do and don’t contain.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Not all gummy vitamins are created equally\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Most gummy vitamins contain the major vitamins–vitamin A, C, D, E, and several B vitamins–but don’t contain many of the minerals found in solid vitamins. Most also don’t contain iron or calcium.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>All types and levels of vitamins vary from brand to brand, so it’s important to check the vitamin’s label before purchasing it. For example, one brand of gummy vitamins may contain 100% of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin C, while another contains only 50%.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Sugar and citric acid aren’t so sweet for teeth\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>It’s no mystery why gummy vitamins taste like candy–they are usually loaded with sugar, which can cause major tooth trouble. The bacteria that is naturally present in your child’s mouth loves to feed on sugar, producing more acid as a result. And with more acid comes even more risk of tooth decay and cavities.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>There are numerous sugar-free gummy vitamins on the market today, but don’t be fooled by the popular opinion that sugar-free equals safe for teeth. Even though sugar-free gummy vitamins do not contain sugar, they still contain citric acid.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Citric acid gives sugar-free gummy vitamins the fruity flavor that kids love. But as we mentioned above, acid is what really wears away at your child’s tooth enamel. It’s very similar to diet and sugar-free sodas that don’t contain sugar, but still have high amounts of acid that can cause tooth decay and other oral health problems.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>A sticky situation\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Gummy vitamins are also exactly that–gummy. Most parents think that the effects of eating a gummy vitamin or two each day will be minimal. After all, it’s not like your child is eating a bag of candy! The problem is that gummy vitamins (or gummy candies or “fruit” snacks or anything else in the gummy category) often leave a sticky residue that adheres to the grooves of your child’s teeth. This residue can remain for hours and doesn’t get washed away by your child’s saliva as easily as other foods, allowing mouth bacteria to thrive.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Alternatives to gummy vitamins\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Thankfully, there are many alternatives to gummy vitamins, such as Flintstones Complete and Centrum Kids Multivitamin. Non-chewable vitamins are the best choice, as long as your child can safely swallow them. If not, chewable vitamins (which leave less residue on your child’s teeth than gummy vitamins) and liquid vitamins are also good options.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If gummy vitamins are the only tolerable option for your child, that’s okay. Just make sure they take them when and where they can brush their teeth immediately afterward–perhaps before bedtime or after they wake in the morning.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Kudos to you for incorporating vitamins into your child’s diet. With the right kind of vitamin and proper dental care, you can give your child a healthy smile to match their healthy body.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Patient-centered care is just a phone call away\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we know that dental health is an essential part of overall health, and we truly care about helping kids and their parents every step of the way. It’s our job to keep you both smiling – and we’re great at it! From the moment you walk into our office, you’ll see and feel the Schenectady difference. To schedule an appointment, contact us today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,831,836],[829,834,839],{"id":1132,"title":1133,"slug":1135,"date":1136,"seo":1137,"main_image":1141,"content":1153,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1156,"author":908,"categories":1157,"category_names":1158},5979,{"rendered":1134},"Five facts about fluoride for kids","five-facts-about-fluoride-for-kids",["Date","2024-04-16T11:36:34.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1138,"page_description":1139,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1140,"type":598},"Five facts about fluoride for kids | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Is fluoride good for kids? How much fluoride is too much? Can children get fluoride side effects? Learn the answers to these questions and more.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1142,"id":1142,"title":1143,"filename":1144,"filesize":1145,"url":1146,"link":1147,"alt":1148,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1143,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1132,"date":1149,"modified":1150,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1151},7340,"blog-fluoride-for-kids","blog-fluoride-for-kids.jpg",24363,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-fluoride-for-kids.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/five-facts-about-fluoride-for-kids/blog-fluoride-for-kids/","girl brushing teeth","2025-07-28 19:58:26","2025-07-28 21:02:59",{"thumbnail":1152,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1146,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1146,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1146,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1146,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1146,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-fluoride-for-kids-150x150.jpg",[1154],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1155},"\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we’re big believers in doing everything we can to protect your child’s smile–and that’s where fluoride comes in. This magical mineral found in toothpaste, professional fluoride treatments, and even our water plays a big role in keeping your child’s smile bright and healthy. Best of all, it can be used effectively both at the dentist office and at home.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Is fluoride good for kids? How much fluoride is too much? Can children get fluoride side effects? Keep reading to learn five kid fluoride facts that answer these questions and more.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Kid fluoride fact #1: Fluoride is natural\u003C/h2>\n\u003Ch2>Fluorine, from which fluoride is derived, is the 13th most abundant element and is released into the environment naturally. In fact, fluoride (pronounced FLOOR-ide) is naturally present in all water – it’s like nature’s gift to our teeth!\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>However, the fluoride that occurs naturally in water is not usually at a high enough level to protect our teeth. That’s why extra fluoride—the official level recommended by health officials is 0.7 parts per million—is added to water in the United States and many other countries. This number may not sound like much, but a little fluoride goes a long way.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Kid fluoride facts #2: Fluoride is good for teeth\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Fluoride, which strengthens teeth and repairs the damage caused by tooth decay, can help your child’s teeth at any age–even when they are babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a soft washcloth or baby toothbrush to wipe your baby’s gums and teeth with water or even a tiny “smear” of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice) once their first tooth appears. At age three, you can begin using a pea-sized drop of fluoride toothpaste twice a day.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>As your child grows, bacteria in their mouth combines with sugars and makes acid that can harm the outer layer of their teeth (also known as the enamel). Fluoride protects teeth from damage and can even help rebuild the enamel. So, is fluoride good for kids’ teeth? The answer is a resounding yes!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Kid fluoride facts #3: There are lots of ways to safely use fluoride\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and drinking fluoridated water are two of the easiest ways to use fluoride–and yes, your child can safely do both without any fluoride side effects.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Here are some kid toothpaste tips and tricks to help keep them safe and maximize the benefits of fluoride:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Always use the recommended amount of toothpaste for your child’s age.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Use a timer, sing a song, or count out loud to make sure they brush for two full minutes before spitting out all the toothpaste.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Supervise their brushing (especially young children under the age of six) so they do not swallow any toothpaste.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Many parents wonder how much fluoride is too much for kids or if their child could experience fluoride side effects. There is a risk of fluorosis–an enamel condition that appears as faint white streaks on the teeth–if too much fluoride is ingested. If you have any questions, contact the Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry team.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Kid fluoride facts #4: There’s more than one type of fluoride\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>There are two types of professional fluoride treatments to help strengthen teeth. Topical fluoride is applied to the surface of any erupted teeth and acts directly on the enamel. Topical fluoride can be found in toothpaste, mouth rinse, and fluoride varnish, which is quickly applied with a small brush at the dentist’s office.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Systemic fluoride is incorporated into developing unerupted teeth (the ones you can’t see!). Systemic fluoride includes fluoridated water and dietary fluoride supplements. These supplements are available only by prescription and come in the form of tablets, drops, or lozenges.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Kid fluoride facts #5: Fluoridated water is worth it\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Fluoridated water provides both topical benefits (when it comes in contact with the teeth) and systemic benefits (when it is swallowed). Drinking water with fluoride coats your teeth in small amounts of fluoride throughout the day, helping to prevent cavities before they start.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Fluoridated water reaches over 60% of the U.S. population through public water sources. There are various ways to find out if the water your household drinks contains fluoride:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Water from a public source – Call your local water utility company or public health department\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Water from a private source – Contact the supplier\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Bottled water – The fluoride level should be on the label\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Well water – The fluoride level can be tested at a laboratory or by the public health department\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Community water fluoridation is an extremely effective and inexpensive means of obtaining the fluoride necessary for optimal prevention of tooth decay. If your community’s water supply has low levels of fluoride, you can increase your fluoride consumption by simply adding fluoride to your daily routine. If you are unsure about your community’s water, ask your dentist and/or contact your public health department or water supplier.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule an appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Want to find out more about fluoride? The expert team at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to help. It’s our goal to give you and your child every reason to smile.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>You’ll know from the minute walk through our doors that Schenectady is a special place. Come experience our quality care and patient-centered focus for yourself! Contact us to schedule an appointment today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,831,836],[829,834,839],{"id":1160,"title":1161,"slug":1163,"date":1164,"seo":1165,"main_image":1169,"content":1180,"hash":102,"component_padding":906,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1183,"author":908,"categories":1184,"category_names":1185},5965,{"rendered":1162},"Dental hygiene tips & tricks for kids","dental-hygiene-tips-tricks-for-kids",["Date","2024-04-16T11:31:02.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1166,"page_description":1167,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1168,"type":598},"Dental hygiene tips & tricks for kids | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","How often should my child see the dentist? Why does my child get so many cavities? When should kids be able to brush their teeth on their own?",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1170,"id":1170,"title":1171,"filename":1172,"filesize":1173,"url":1174,"link":1175,"alt":1176,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1171,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1160,"date":984,"modified":1177,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1178},7336,"blog-dental-hygiene-tips","blog-dental-hygiene-tips.jpg",19709,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-dental-hygiene-tips.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/dental-hygiene-tips-tricks-for-kids/blog-dental-hygiene-tips/","Father and son brushing teeth","2025-07-28 20:08:00",{"thumbnail":1179,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1174,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1174,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1174,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1174,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1174,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-dental-hygiene-tips-150x150.jpg",[1181],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1182},"\u003Cp>At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we provide patient-centered care that makes visiting the dentist a positive experience for children and parents alike. While we love to see our patients for regular hygiene visits (we really do!), most pediatric dental hygiene happens at home.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Whether your child is an infant or toddler who depends on you for their oral care or a teen who wants to handle it on their own (but may still need a parental push now and then), we do everything we can to arm you with pediatric dental hygiene tips that help keep their smile healthy.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The pediatric dentistry experts\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>How often should my child see the dentist? Why does my child get so many cavities? When should kids be able to brush their teeth on their own?\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>You can count on Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry for children’s dental hygiene tips that answer these questions and many more.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>With 2-3 additional years of specialized training beyond dental school in the unique needs of infants, young children, and teens, including patients with special needs, the board-certified dentists at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry are ready to care for your child’s teeth through every stage of childhood.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Children’s dental hygiene starts early\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Every child should see a pediatric dentist by the age of one, or as soon as their first baby tooth emerges.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>It’s all about prevention–bringing your child to the dentist at a young age allows any developing issues to be identified and treated as early as possible.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Early visits build confidence and help young kids get used to visiting the dentist. The friendly and experienced team at Schenectady knows how to help kids (and nervous parents) feel calm and comfortable.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>It begins with brushing\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Even brand-new babies need their mouths cleaned! The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends wiping your baby’s gums and teeth (when they emerge) with a soft washcloth or baby toothbrush using a smear or rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>From ages 3 to 6, use a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste to prevent decay as your child’s teeth grow and change.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Most children can start brushing their teeth on their own by the time they enter elementary school. Until then, we recommend helping out your little one!\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Your child should brush twice a day for two minutes each time, preferably after breakfast and before bedtime. Use back-and-forth, up-and-down, and circular motions to ensure a thorough cleaning.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Encourage your child to brush their tongue and gums as well. Bacteria and plaque linger on soft tissues in the mouth, so keeping their tongue and gums clean is essential to oral hygiene and good breath.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that won’t irritate your child’s sensitive teeth and gums. You can make it more fun by letting your child pick out their own toothbrush–perhaps one with bright colors or their favorite cartoon character. Whatever it takes to make them excited about brushing their teeth! We also recommend switching out their toothbrush or electric brush head every 3-4 months or sooner if your child has been sick.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Flossing facts\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Your child should floss at least once a day. It’s best to floss at bedtime so your child can remove any food particles that are caught in their teeth. Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that parents and caregivers help with flossing until at least age 8.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>If your child has a hard time using traditional floss, floss picks are a kid-friendly option (some even come in animal shapes!).\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Eat tooth-friendly nutrients\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>The adage is true: you are what you eat. Foods that are rich in calcium like milk and other dairy products, broccoli, and leafy green vegetables help your child build strong teeth and bones.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>If your child is lactose-intolerant or “vegetable-adverse” (as a lot of kids are), ask your child’s doctor about calcium supplements.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Many other vitamins–including vitamin D, copper, zinc, potassium, iodine, and iron–also contribute to the health of your child’s teeth.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Skip the sugar\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Many parents ask themselves, “Why does my child get so many cavities?” Too often, the answer is sugary drinks. Most fruit juices are loaded with extra sugar–often just as much as soda. Sports drinks, lemonade, sweet tea, juice, and chocolate or strawberry milk all contain extra sugar and should be avoided.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Hydration is key to your child’s overall health! Kids ages 6 and up should aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day vs. sweet or acidic drinks.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>If your child craves the sweetness of fruit, eating fresh fruit is a more nutritional option than juice and far kinder to their teeth.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Avoid sweets, starchy snacks (like crackers) and sticky treats (“fruit” snacks, raisins, and gummy vitamins). Low sugar full-fat yogurt, white milk, cheese, applesauce, and mixed nuts are great snack options.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>We are all human! We understand that sometimes your child will have drinks and foods that aren’t tooth-friendly. Make sure they brush thoroughly afterwards.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Chew sugarless gum (once your child is old enough)\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Chewing gum stimulates the flow of saliva, which helps remove bacteria from your child’s teeth.\u003Cbr />\nGum that is sweetened with sugar only feeds this bacteria, causing plaque build-up and tooth decay.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Always opt for gum sweetened with xylitol, a natural sugar that helps reduce cavities more than other sweeteners.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>And of course, always chew carefully to avoid choking! According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the recommended age for chewing gum is four years old and up.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Fluoride for the win\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, plays a vital role in children’s dental hygiene. Your Schenectady pediatric dentist can administer fluoride treatments to help prevent tooth decay and cavities.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Your child can start receiving fluoride treatments as soon as their first tooth appears.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>If your water supply at home is not fluoridated–for example, if your water comes from a well or your child prefers bottled water–ask us about supplement options.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Prevent decay with sealants\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Dental sealants are another way to prevent tooth decay in your child’s permanent teeth. Sealants only take minutes to apply, but the benefits last for years.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>While fluoride strengthens their enamel against tooth decay, sealants prevent food from getting stuck in the tiny grooves on the surface of your child’s teeth.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>For maximum effectiveness, sealants should be applied to each set of molars as soon as they erupt – which typically begins around age six or seven.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Get regular cleanings\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Regular cleanings–usually every six months–help remove the plaque build-up that can lead to tooth decay and cavities.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Focus on the positives of each visit and try not to share your personal fears or negative feelings about going to the dentist.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Catching dental issues early means that your board-certified Schenectady pediatric dentist can treat the problem right away and hopefully prevent more serious issues in the future.\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule your appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Want to learn more tips and tricks to protect your child’s ever-changing smile? Visit us at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, the first and best pediatric dentist in Denver. From the moment you walk into our office, you and your child will be treated like family.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>We can’t wait to meet you! To schedule an appointment, contact Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":906,"component_margins":664},[826,831,846],[829,834,849],{"id":1187,"title":1188,"slug":1190,"date":1191,"seo":1192,"main_image":1196,"content":1206,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1209,"author":908,"categories":1210,"category_names":1211},5963,{"rendered":1189},"Best food and diet recommendations for your child’s teeth","best-food-and-diet-recommendations-for-your-childs-teeth",["Date","2024-04-16T11:16:06.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1193,"page_description":1194,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1195,"type":598},"Best food and diet recommendations for your child’s teeth | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Your child’s diet contributes greatly to their physical health and to their oral health as well. ",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":1197,"id":1197,"title":1198,"filename":1199,"filesize":1200,"url":1201,"link":1202,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1198,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1187,"date":1065,"modified":1203,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1204},7332,"blog-best-food-and-diet","blog-best-food-and-diet.jpg",35909,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-best-food-and-diet.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/best-food-and-diet-recommendations-for-your-childs-teeth/blog-best-food-and-diet/","2025-07-28 20:06:12",{"thumbnail":1205,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1201,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1201,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1201,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1201,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1201,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-best-food-and-diet-150x150.jpg",[1207],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1208},"\u003Cp>\u003Cem>You are what you eat.\u003C/em>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Most of us have heard this phrase before, but it’s really true! Your child’s diet contributes greatly to their physical health and to their oral health as well. Dietary needs will vary as children move through different stages of growth, but have no doubt–foods that are good for your child’s body are also good for their teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>So, let’s take a moment to digest (pun intended) some ways that you can help your child get the nutrition they need for healthy growth and development, including their teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Use MyPlate to plan meals\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The MyPlate tool provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is an excellent source of dietary guidelines for all ages. Use this interactive tool to plan meals that ensure your family is getting the right amount of all five major food groups (fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy).\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Strong bones = stronger smiles\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Strong bones not only prevent fractures and other injuries, but they also support your child’s teeth–and stronger teeth help kids prevent tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Foods that are rich in vitamins (especially calcium) and protein are the building blocks for healthy bone growth and should be eaten daily. These include meats, poultry, dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fresh fruits.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Unfortunately, too many children in the U.S. do not get enough calcium in their daily diet. The recommended amount of calcium varies by age, requiring more as kids get older:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Age one to three: 700 mg each day\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Age four to eight: 1,000 mg each day\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Age nine to 18: 1,300 mg each day\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Of course, dairy products–such as milk, cheese, and yogurt–are great sources of calcium. If your child is lactose-intolerant, many dairy products are now available in lactose-free versions that are still rich in calcium. Your child can also get calcium from non-dairy foods like broccoli and beans.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Have healthy snacks on hand\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Kids often have a habit of grabbing sugary foods and drinks when they snack. Sugar is notorious for creating cavities, so it’s a good idea to always have healthy snack options on hand after school or between meals. When possible, avoid sweets, starchy snacks (such as potato chips or crackers), and sticky treats (such as “fruit” snacks, raisins, or granola bars).\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Some healthy snack ideas include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Celery or cucumber slices served with hummus dip (bonus: both celery and cucumber contain a high volume of water)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Sliced apples served with peanut butter for extra protein\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Tubes or cups of low-sugar yogurt\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Cubed, sliced, or stick cheese (fun fact: cheese triggers the flow of saliva, which helps wash food particles away from teeth)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Speaking of saliva\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If you plan to give your child any sugary treats, give them as dessert immediately after mealtime rather than as a snack. Why? There’s usually an increased amount of saliva in the mouth at mealtime, making it easier to wash sugary food particles away from teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Certain sugary treats like lollipops and hard candies continuously coat the teeth with sugar, contributing to tooth decay. Sweets that linger on the teeth should always be avoided, even after mealtime.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Stay focused on what your child sips\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Staying hydrated is critical to our overall health. By age six, all kids should try to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Other than water, anything that your child sips on throughout the day (or night) can cause cavities, including soda, juice, sports drinks, lemonade, and chocolate, strawberry, or white milk. Many of these sugary beverages, especially soda, can speed up dehydration as well.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The sugar content in soda combines with bacteria in your child’s mouth to form acid, which attacks their teeth. Even diet or sugar-free soda contains acid–so it’s best to avoid soda if possible.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>When in doubt, water is always the best choice! For extra calcium, you can encourage your child to drink white milk at meals and water between meals.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Set a positive example\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your child will value their health and their teeth the same way that you value yours. They are also likely to eat and drink whatever is available to them at home. You can set a positive example by providing healthy foods and encouraging good oral hygiene habits.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>When it’s time to visit the dentist, focus on the positives! We want Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry to be a happy place for your child–we’ll do everything we can to help them (and you) feel relaxed and cared for when you’re with us.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule your appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>From diet recommendations to dental habits, the team at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to meet your child’s oral health needs. A big part of our patient-centered approach is partnering with you to give your child the best possible chance for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We’re totally in this together!\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>To schedule an appointment, contact Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[826,831,836,846],[829,834,839,849],1773954610121]