[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1053},["ShallowReactive",2],{"global":3,"doctors-all":587,"locations-all":798,"categories-all":824,"blog":855,"posts-category-infant-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. Etiam nec nulla commodo, sodales ipsum sit amet, venenatis lacus. Vivamus a arcu dictum, volutpat libero nec, elementum justo. Vivamus enim orci, maximus at justo vitae, feugiat ornare orci. Nulla imperdiet erat eu diam volutpat, eu blandit enim auctor. Maecenas ut lorem risus. Suspendisse nec pretium mauris. Ut at urna sed mi tincidunt tempor. Sed commodo rutrum velit eu semper. Vivamus vehicula augue nec sapien suscipit finibus. Sed sed feugiat est, id placerat velit. Class aptent taciti sociosqu ad litora torquent per conubia nostra, per inceptos himenaeos. 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},[874,910,927,954,981,1009,1036],{"id":875,"title":876,"slug":878,"date":879,"seo":880,"main_image":884,"content":902,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":906,"author":907,"categories":908,"category_names":909},6008,{"rendered":877},"Brushing teeth with a toddler","brushing-teeth-with-a-toddler",["Date","2024-04-16T14:19:08.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":881,"page_description":882,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":883,"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":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},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","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-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",1024,"https://nuxt-ssp.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/thetoothdoctors/assets/wp-content/uploads/family-brushing-1536x1536.webp",1536,[903],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":905},"text","\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},7,[826,836,841],[829,839,844],{"id":398,"title":911,"slug":913,"date":914,"seo":915,"main_image":919,"content":921,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":924,"author":907,"categories":925,"category_names":926},{"rendered":912},"How can I help my child through the teething stage?","how-can-i-help-my-child-through-the-teething-stage",["Date","2024-04-16T14:08:05.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":916,"page_description":917,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":918,"type":598},"How can I help my child through the teething stage? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","A cranky, fussy baby. Aching gums. Sleepless nights. Lots of tears (and the baby may not be the only one who wants to cry!). Welcome to the world of teething.\r\n",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"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":920},{"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},[922],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":923},"\u003Cp>A cranky, fussy baby. Aching gums. Sleepless nights. Lots of tears (and the baby may not be the only one who wants to cry!). Welcome to the world of teething.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you’ve experienced the teething stage as a parent before, you know exactly what we’re talking about. If this is your first time, buckle up–you’re about to embark on a challenging experience, but one that is a natural part of your infant’s growth and development.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Your child will get through the teething stage in a few years, so there is light (and a great smile) at the end of the tunnel. Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to help you every step of the way.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What does teething mean?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your baby was born with all 20 primary (“baby”) teeth right below their gumline. The first tooth typically appears between 6-12 months of age, although it can happen earlier or later. Some babies are even born with a tooth already present, although it’s very rare.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Teething is a term for the process that infants go through as their teeth break through their gums. By the time your child is three years old, they should have their full set of 20 baby teeth–so there will be a lot of changes in your child’s mouth for the first few years of their life.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>How can I tell if my baby is teething?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Some classic symptoms of teething include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Irritability or crankiness\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Sore or tender gums\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Red or swollen gums\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Excessive drooling\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Chewing on toys and other objects\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Lack of appetite\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Disturbed sleep\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Low-grade temperature (100 F or below)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Teething symptoms are usually most present on the days before a new tooth erupts, then subside until another tooth starts to come in.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What can I expect during the teething process?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Your child’s baby teeth will break through their gums in stages during the teething process. Typically, the bottom front teeth come in first, followed by the top front teeth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The rest of their baby teeth will break through your child’s gums over the next 2-3 years. Some children have all their baby teeth by the time they turn two, but most are not finished until age three.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What should I do (and NOT do) to help my child feel better?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The pediatric specialists at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry see a lot of young patients in the midst of teething and offer \u003Cstrong>these suggestions to help ease your child’s pain:\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Gently rub their gums with a damp washcloth or gauze pad\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Chill a teething ring in the refrigerator and give it to them to chew (avoid liquid-filled teething rings or plastic objects that could break)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Use a bib to catch their drool and keep their chin dry\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Avoid using teething gels that contain salicylate or benzocaine, such as Orajel, until your child is at least two years old\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>In place of teething gel, give your child liquid acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and discomfort\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>If your child is old enough, encourage them to chew harder foods like cold fruit and vegetables to soothe aching gums\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>There are also several teething remedies that can harm your child and should be avoided. \u003Cstrong>Never:\u003C/strong>\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Give them baby aspirin or rub it on their gums\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Use alcohol on their gums (despite any stories you might hear from grandparents!)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Put frozen objects directly on their gums\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Use teething necklaces or bracelets or allow them to chew on hard plastic toys (all of which are choking hazards)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Use homeopathic teething tablets\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>The teething stage can be difficult, but Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is here to give you guidance and support whenever you need it. We’ll get your child (and you) through this together!\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule an appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>It’s important to start caring for your child’s teeth as soon as the first one breaks through. Their baby teeth will have to last several years before they’re replaced with adult teeth–so the sooner we can begin preventing tooth decay, the better.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends bringing your child to a pediatric dentist for their first visit at age one. We’re excited to meet you and begin monitoring your child’s smile. From the teething stage to teen stage, you can count on Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry to provide your child with expert dental care. \u003Ca href=\"/contact\">Contact us\u003C/a> for an appointment today!\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[841],[844],{"id":928,"title":929,"slug":931,"date":932,"seo":933,"main_image":937,"content":948,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":951,"author":907,"categories":952,"category_names":953},6001,{"rendered":930},"What causes tooth decay in kids?","what-causes-tooth-decay-in-kids",["Date","2024-04-16T13:12:55.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":934,"page_description":935,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":936,"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":938,"id":938,"title":939,"filename":940,"filesize":941,"url":942,"link":943,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":939,"status":157,"uploaded_to":928,"date":944,"modified":945,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":946},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":947,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":942,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":942,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":942,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":942,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":942,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-decay-in-kids-150x150.jpg",[949],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":950},"\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":955,"title":956,"slug":958,"date":959,"seo":960,"main_image":964,"content":975,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":978,"author":907,"categories":979,"category_names":980},5998,{"rendered":957},"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":961,"page_description":962,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":963,"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":965,"id":965,"title":966,"filename":967,"filesize":968,"url":969,"link":970,"alt":102,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":966,"status":157,"uploaded_to":955,"date":971,"modified":972,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":973},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 19:58:25","2025-07-28 21:01:06",{"thumbnail":974,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":969,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":969,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":969,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":969,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":969,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-first-dental-appointment-150x150.jpg",[976],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":977},"\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":982,"title":983,"slug":985,"date":986,"seo":987,"main_image":991,"content":1003,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1006,"author":907,"categories":1007,"category_names":1008},5996,{"rendered":984},"The effects of tongue-ties and lip-ties on breastfeeding","the-effects-of-tongue-ties-and-lip-ties-on-breastfeeding",["Date","2024-04-16T13:01:55.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":988,"page_description":989,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":990,"type":598},"The effects of tongue-ties and lip-ties on breastfeeding | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","The experts at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry are here to explain what tongue-ties and lip-ties could mean for you and your child.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":992,"id":992,"title":993,"filename":994,"filesize":995,"url":996,"link":997,"alt":998,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":993,"status":157,"uploaded_to":982,"date":999,"modified":1000,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1001},7346,"blog-tongue-ties","blog-tongue-ties.jpg",24487,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-tongue-ties.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/the-effects-of-tongue-ties-and-lip-ties-on-breastfeeding/blog-tongue-ties/","Small toddler in blue shirt","2025-07-28 19:58:30","2025-07-28 21:12:05",{"thumbnail":1002,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":996,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":996,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":996,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":996,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":996,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-tongue-ties-150x150.jpg",[1004],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1005},"\u003Cp>You have probably heard of being tongue-tied before, but lip-tied? For many new and expecting parents, both are words you’ll need to be familiar with.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>The experts at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry are here to explain what tongue-ties and lip-ties are and what they could mean for you and your child, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. Just know that if you’re struggling with feeding issues, you’re not alone–and your pediatric dental specialist may have the solution.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>What is a tongue-tie?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>A tongue-tie (or ankyloglossia) is when the bottom of your child’s tongue is anchored to the floor of their mouth by a thin membrane called the frenulum. This thin piece of tissue connects their tongue to the bottom of their mouth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If your little one has tongue-tie, their frenulum may be too short, thick, or stiff. Some tongue-ties are unnoticeable and don’t need treatment, while others range from moderate to severe.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Some signs that your child may have a tongue-tie include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>The tip of their tongue looks heart-shaped or square instead of pointed, especially when they try to stick it out\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>They cannot stick their tongue out past their lips\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>The tip of their tongue cannot touch the roof of their mouth\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>What is a maxillary lip-tie?\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>A maxillary lip-tie is when the remnant of tissue between your child’s upper lip (also called a frenulum) and their gum is not shaped correctly, interfering with the normal mobility and function of their upper lip. Lip-ties can also interfere with proper teeth cleaning, especially in the upper mouth.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Some signs that your child may have a lip-tie include:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>A gap or large space between their upper front teeth\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Extra plaque or built-up decay on their upper front teeth\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>The impact on your child\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>We always say that oral health can impact your child’s overall health, and that’s certainly the case with tongue-ties and lip-ties. Before we delve into breastfeeding, let’s explore some of the other ways that a tongue-tie or lip-tie can affect your child’s daily life.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>In addition to feeding challenges, a tongue-tie or lip-tie can cause:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Speech issues due to limited mobility of the tongue or upper lip\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Gum recession (when the gum tissue pulls away from teeth)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Higher likelihood of tooth decay\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Gaps or large spaces between teeth\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Other oral health problems\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>The impact on breastfeeding\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Of course, the greatest impact of tongue-ties and lip-ties revolves around feeding. At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, we see many parents who come to us looking for help.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Most babies with a tongue-tie or lip-tie have difficulty sticking their tongue out and cannot properly grasp a nipple in their mouth when they are trying to breastfeed. To compensate, your baby may try to suck harder (cue an “OUCH!” from mom) or may not be able to latch at all. Some babies become so frustrated that they refuse to nurse altogether.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The consequences for moms\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Moms of babies with a tongue-tie or lip-tie may experience:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Sore, dry, and/or cracked nipples\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Pain or discomfort while breastfeeding\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Low or decreased milk supply\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Blocked milk ducts\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Nipple thrush\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Mastitis (inflammation of breast tissue, which can lead to infection)\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>The consequences for babies\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Moms aren’t the only ones who suffer–feeding is not easy for babies with a tongue-tie or lip-tie either. Your child may:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Have difficulty latching and staying on the breast\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Fall asleep while feeding\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Be a “noisy” eater (often making loud sucking sounds)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Have excessive gas or reflux\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Not gain enough weight\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Finding the solution\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>When the above issues are present, the team at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry can examine your child for a tongue-tie or lip-tie and determine what sort of treatment is needed.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>We may recommend a safe and simple procedure called a laser frenectomy to solve the problem. This is when a soft tissue laser is used to repair the frenulum that is restricting movement in your child’s mouth. If the pediatric specialists at Schenectady recommend a frenectomy, we’ll connect you with top specialists in the area to perform the procedure.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>There are many benefits of laser frenectomy, including:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>A soft tissue laser does not cut–it’s more like vaporization of tissue\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>The procedure is quick, with very little pain or bleeding\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>No general anesthesia is necessary (sometimes, even a local anesthetic isn’t needed)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Because using a laser minimizes the risk of damage to adjacent tissues, the healing time is faster\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Stitches or sutures are rarely required\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Post-op discomfort is limited to a few hours\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>If your child needs a frenectomy, the timing of their procedure is very important. Frenectomies are most commonly performed on young infants to resolve feeding issues, although older children, adolescents, and even adults can also have the procedure.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule an appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Breastfeeding can be hard enough–don’t let your child’s tongue-tie or lip-tie make the early days of parenthood even more stressful. The specialists at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry know how to diagnose tongue-ties and lip-ties, so your child has fewer barriers to healthy eating.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>If you suspect that your child may have tongue-tie or lip-tie, bring them in to see us anytime so we can connect you to the appropriate local specialist. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns, examine your child, and discuss your treatment options.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>We look forward to meeting you! To schedule an appointment, \u003Ca href=\"/contact\">contact us today\u003C/a>.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[841],[844],{"id":1010,"title":1011,"slug":1013,"date":1014,"seo":1015,"main_image":1019,"content":1030,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1033,"author":907,"categories":1034,"category_names":1035},5985,{"rendered":1012},"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":1016,"page_description":1017,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1018,"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":1020,"id":1020,"title":1021,"filename":1022,"filesize":1023,"url":1024,"link":1025,"alt":1026,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":1021,"status":157,"uploaded_to":1010,"date":999,"modified":1027,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":1028},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 21:13:54",{"thumbnail":1029,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":1024,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":1024,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":1024,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":1024,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":1024,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-thumb-sucking-pacifier-150x150.jpg",[1031],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1032},"\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":474,"title":1037,"slug":1039,"date":1040,"seo":1041,"main_image":1045,"content":1047,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":1050,"author":907,"categories":1051,"category_names":1052},{"rendered":1038},"All about baby bottle tooth decay","all-about-baby-bottle-tooth-decay",["Date","2024-04-16T11:11:04.000Z"],{"":319,"page_title":1042,"page_description":1043,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":1044,"type":598},"All about baby bottle tooth decay | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Baby bottle tooth decay happens most often on the upper front teeth, but other teeth can also be affected.",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"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":1046},{"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},[1048],{"acf_fc_layout":904,"text":1049},"\u003Cp>The day when your infant’s first tooth emerges is a big milestone. Your child’s teeth are coming in! Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out, taking good care of them is incredibly important.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Even tiny baby teeth are susceptible to decay and cavities, which could cause oral health problems for your child in the future. In this blog, we’ll explain what baby bottle tooth decay is, how to avoid it, and what can be done if it happens to your little one.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>The battle to protect baby teeth\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Baby bottle tooth decay is the term used to describe tooth decay in infants and toddlers. It happens most often on the upper front teeth, but other teeth can also be affected.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>One of the most common causes of baby bottle tooth decay is continuous exposure to sugary drinks, especially if the child drinks from a bottle or sippy cup as they fall asleep. Baby bottle tooth decay can also occur when children are allowed to drink anything other than water from a bottle or sippy cup throughout the day.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>It’s probably no surprise that sugar is found in juice and many types of snacks, but sugar is also present in milk and baby formula. When an infant or toddler falls asleep with a bottle or sippy cup–or uses one for extended periods of time–the sugar in whatever they are drinking tends to coat their teeth, causing decay more quickly.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>How sugar turns into decay\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Just like most kids, the bacteria in your child’s mouth loves sugar. When baby teeth come into frequent contact with too much sugar through food or liquids, the bacteria feeds on it and changes the sugar into acid. This acid attacks and weakens your child’s tooth enamel, potentially leading to decay and cavities. (Yes, even babies can get cavities.)\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Cavity-causing bacteria can also be passed to an infant or toddler through their caregiver’s saliva. When you put your child’s feeding spoon into your mouth, drink from the same cup, or use your mouth to clean their pacifier, bacteria can easily get passed to your child–where it patiently waits for sugar to arrive.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Signs of baby bottle tooth decay\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Baby bottle tooth decay may first appear as white spots on your child’s gum line or as brown or dark spots on their teeth. However, these signs may be difficult to see on tiny baby teeth without the proper equipment. This is one of many reasons why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly encourage taking your child to the dentist for their first visit by age one. A board-certified pediatric dentist from Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry can give you a clear plan for caring for your child’s teeth and help you prevent early decay right from the start.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Don’t ignore baby bottle tooth decay\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>If left untreated, baby bottle tooth decay can lead to:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Cavities and gum disease\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Pain and discomfort in your child’s mouth\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Infection that can cause other health issues\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Premature baby tooth loss (if the remaining baby teeth move, there may not be enough room for permanent teeth to come in)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Costly dental care in the future\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Poor eating habits\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Speech problems</li\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>If you’re a parent who uses a bottle or sippy cup to soothe your baby or lull them to sleep, we understand. Our experienced team sees this often and we are trained to provide you with the information and care you need to help protect your child’s teeth–with no judgment, ever. We’ll work as partners to put an end to baby bottle tooth decay together.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Tips and tricks for preventing baby bottle tooth decay\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>There are many things that you can do to avoid baby bottle tooth decay and protect one of your child’s best assets–their smile.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>If you give your child a bottle or sippy cup, fill it with water instead of milk, baby formula, or juice. (If your drinking water is fluoridated, even better!)\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Don’t allow your child to walk or play with a bottle dangling from their mouth.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Teach your child how to drink from a cup as soon as possible. The American Dental Association recommends switching from a bottle to a cup by your child’s first birthday.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Keep your baby’s mouth clean by gently wiping their gums with a soft washcloth. Once their first teeth emerge, you can brush them with a soft baby toothbrush and a small smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice).\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Just say no to juice–the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than six ounces of juice per day for young children, and babies under six months should not drink juice at all.\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Bring your child to Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry!\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Ch2>Schedule your appointment today\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>We hope you’ll come see for yourself why Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is such a special place. We provide high-quality dental care for infants (starting at age one) to young adults, and everything in-between! To schedule an appointment, contact us today.\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},[841],[844],1776106813399]