[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":904},["ShallowReactive",2],{"global":3,"doctors-all":587,"locations-all":798,"why-should-my-child-see-a-pediatric-dentist-instead-of-our-regular-family-dentist":824,"blog":855,"categories-all":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},{"title":515,"slug":825,"seo":826,"main_image":830,"content":843,"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664,"component_spacing":847,"date":848,"categories":849,"category_names":852},"why-should-my-child-see-a-pediatric-dentist-instead-of-our-regular-family-dentist",{"":319,"page_title":827,"page_description":828,"twitter_card":595,"og_meta":829,"type":598},"Why should my child see a pediatric dentist instead of our regular family dentist? | Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry","Let’s explore what it means to be a board-certified pediatric dentist, and why Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is the ideal place to care for your child’s smile",{"title":102,"description":102,"image":102},{"ID":831,"id":831,"title":832,"filename":833,"filesize":834,"url":835,"link":836,"alt":837,"author":285,"description":102,"caption":102,"name":832,"status":157,"uploaded_to":838,"date":839,"modified":840,"menu_order":15,"mime_type":160,"type":161,"subtype":162,"icon":163,"width":401,"height":401,"sizes":841},7343,"blog-pediatric-dentist","blog-pediatric-dentist.jpg",37655,"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-pediatric-dentist.jpg","https://api-nuxt3.thetoothdoctors.com/why-should-my-child-see-a-pediatric-dentist-instead-of-our-regular-family-dentist/blog-pediatric-dentist/","Girl's first dental visit",5989,"2025-07-28 19:58:28","2025-07-28 21:07:13",{"thumbnail":842,"thumbnail-width":168,"thumbnail-height":168,"medium":835,"medium-width":401,"medium-height":401,"medium_large":835,"medium_large-width":401,"medium_large-height":401,"large":835,"large-width":401,"large-height":401,"1536x1536":835,"1536x1536-width":401,"1536x1536-height":401,"2048x2048":835,"2048x2048-width":401,"2048x2048-height":401},"https://southmoorkids.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/assets/wp-content/uploads/blog-pediatric-dentist-150x150.jpg",[844],{"acf_fc_layout":845,"text":846},"text","\u003Cp>It’s time for your child to visit the dentist, and you’ve got a decision to make. Some dentists call themselves “family dentists” or “general dentists” who serve both children and adults. Others say they are “board-certified pediatric dentists.” Sure, it sounds fancy – but is there really a difference?\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Absolutely! It all comes down to education and training. Let’s explore what it means to be a board-certified pediatric dentist, and why Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is the ideal place to care for your child’s smile.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Family dentists and general dentists are one and the same\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The term “family dentist” is a label that some general dentists give themselves to indicate their willingness to treat both children and adults. However, there are no differences in education or training between a general dentist and a family dentist. Like all dentists, they must both graduate from dental school and earn their state dental licenses.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Board-certified pediatric dentists take their education and training even further\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>After graduating from dental school, pediatric dentists complete two additional years of training that go far beyond general dental care. Pediatric dentists not only learn how to diagnose and treat children, but they are trained in child psychology, child development, caring for children with special needs, and much more.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>But that’s not all – to become a board-certified pediatric dentist, they must also pass oral and written examinations administered by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. The oral exam focuses on pediatric dental clinical skills, while the written exam demonstrates their knowledge of current pediatric dentistry techniques and scientific principles related to pediatric dentistry.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>All three doctors on the Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry team are board-certified, which means that when we treat your child, you can rest assured we have the best education, training, and decades of experience available.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>We focus solely on the dental needs of children\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Just as a pediatrician understands the specific medical needs of children, a pediatric dentist understands the specific dental needs of children. Children’s needs are very different than adults, mainly because their young mouths are constantly growing and changing.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Once we reach adulthood and our permanent teeth are in, our mouths remain pretty much the same. However, a pediatric dentist must continuously focus on how a child’s dental issues could affect the future development of their teeth and jaw, and then react accordingly. For example:\u003C/p>\n\u003Cul>\n\u003Cli>Should a problematic tooth be removed now to improve the chances that other teeth will develop normally?\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>If a baby tooth is removed, can we make sure the permanent tooth will come in properly?\u003C/li>\n\u003Cli>Will a child’s bite issues cause tooth loss, jaw problems, or other issues later in life?\u003C/li>\n\u003C/ul>\n\u003Cp>Don’t worry, no crystal balls are needed. Schenectady pediatric dentists know exactly how to intervene early to prevent future problems and can suggest treatment options based on your child’s stage of oral development.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Baby teeth require special care\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>The anatomy of a baby tooth is very different from a permanent tooth. Pediatric dentists are trained to understand baby teeth inside and out. They also perform specific procedures on baby teeth and immature permanent teeth, such as baby root canals (yes, they really do exist).\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>In addition to baby teeth, many other dental issues are seen exclusively in children. These include natal teeth (teeth present at birth) and lip-tie or tongue-tie, which can make feeding difficult. Cavities and tooth decay are a problem at any age but can lead to serious complications if they occur before the age of six. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to recognize and treat issues like these.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>We understand how children think and feel\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>There’s a reason why studying child psychology and child development is part of becoming a board-certified pediatric dentist. Children are often afraid or nervous when they visit the dentist’s office, especially when they are young. They may also struggle with sitting still during their treatment.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Schenectady pediatric dentists know how to ease their fears and create a positive experience from start to finish. Sometimes, the parent is just as stressed as their child! At Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry, you can sit knee-to-knee with your child’s dentist, allowing your child to lay back between the two of you in a safe, nurturing environment. We know there may still be tears, and that’s okay. We are trained to handle them.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>Schenectady pediatric dentists also know how to talk to children. During your child’s exam, we explain what we are doing in “kid terms” and show them our instruments. It’s all about making your child feel as comfortable as possible with patience and compassion.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>We provide a fun kid-friendly environment\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>Every square inch of Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry is designed to make it a happy place for kids. Most family dentist and general dentist offices do not have kid-friendly elements such as fun goodie bags, toy vending machines, or a deep-sea aquarium in the waiting room. Yet they can all help make going to the dentist a much more positive experience for young people.\u003C/p>\n\u003Ch2>Make an appointment to see a board-certified pediatric dentist\u003C/h2>\n\u003Cp>You don’t have to take our word for it – schedule an appointment at Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry and come see for yourself! From the moment you walk through our doors, our pediatric dentists will treat you and your child like family.\u003C/p>\n\u003Cp>You can trust Schenectady Pediatric Dentistry to meet all your child’s dental needs and then some. To schedule an appointment, \u003Ca href=\"/contact\">contact us today.\u003C/a>\u003C/p>\n",{"hash":102,"component_padding":614,"component_margins":664},["Date","2024-04-16T12:20:12.000Z"],[850,851],42,37,[853,854],"General","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},[874,879,884,887,892,897,901],{"id":875,"title":-1,"slug":876,"date":877,"name":878},39,"child-oral-health",["Date",""],"Child oral health",{"id":880,"title":-1,"slug":881,"date":882,"name":883},41,"diet-and-hygiene",["Date",""],"Diet and hygiene",{"id":850,"title":-1,"slug":885,"date":886,"name":853},"general",["Date",""],{"id":888,"title":-1,"slug":889,"date":890,"name":891},40,"infant-oral-health",["Date",""],"Infant oral health",{"id":893,"title":-1,"slug":894,"date":895,"name":896},38,"teen-oral-health",["Date",""],"Teen oral health",{"id":18,"title":-1,"slug":898,"date":899,"name":900},"uncategorized",["Date",""],"Uncategorized",{"id":851,"title":-1,"slug":902,"date":903,"name":854},"why-pediatric-dentistry",["Date",""],1773954610122]