Should I Be Doing More to Help My Kids Prevent Cavities?

Tooth decay isn’t just a problem that affects adults — and it’s not just a problem that affects adult teeth. Our little ones can develop cavities at any age! Even baby teeth can develop tooth decay. So, as a parent, you may be wondering if there is anything more than you can do to prevent cavities and keep your little one’s teeth beautiful and healthy. We’ve listed a few of our best cavity prevention tips below!

How to Prevent Cavities:

• Make Sure They’re Flossing - We all know how important brushing is, but are your kids developing flossing habits, too? Make sure that your kids are using the proper technique, brushing and flossing every day!
• Always Schedule Bi-Annual Cleanings - Make sure that you keep up with bi-annual cleanings and exams. We know that life gets busy, but taking the time to schedule these visits is crucial to maintaining a healthy smile!
• Drink Water, Not Juice! - Before your kids reach for soda or juice — have them drink water! Not only are juices and sodas full of sugar that can eat away at enamel, but water has the added benefit of washing away foods that might otherwise damage teeth!
• Tame Their Sweet Tooth - Stay away from sugary treats! Opt for healthier sweet treats like apples and other healthy snacks.

If it’s time to schedule your child’s bi-annual cleaning and exam, reach out to one of our three Long Island locations! We are here to help ensure that we help children develop good oral health habits, prevent cavities and catch tooth decay early on. Visit our website to learn more about the services that we offer here on the Island, or give us a call directly to schedule your appointment.

Our September Testimonial Round Up!

We absolutely love when we get to hear from our awesome patients! We are always looking to give you and your kids the best possible dental experience. Whether you are new to our practice or you’re just looking to see what others have said about our pediatric dentistry, these are just a few of the amazing reviews we received recently.

“My 4 yo son had to have extensive mouth work done yesterday under anesthesia. Everyone involved was absolutely fantastic. Dr Bennett not only put my mind at ease, he called the day before to go over any concerns I had and gave me his direct number to call at any time, the office called as well to go over everything. The anesthesiologist called to go over everything as well. When we came in the office, both of them went over everything again before they started. The procedure took 2 hours and during that time, the office staff gave constant updates of progress. The procedure started exactly on time and took exactly how long they said it would. Afterwards they were amazing with going over aftercare and everything. A few hours after being home, Dr Bennett even called me to see how my son was feeling. I highly recommend anyone with kids to come here. I will not take my children anywhere else again.” - Candice S.

“Today was my two years first trip to the dentist. I was so impressed by the office and the professionalism of all the staff. They were accommodating as we arrived late. The waiting room is designed for impatient children with toys, video games, and even the floor projector game. Dr. Adelberg was so kind. He made my daughter comfortable with a little game. He was honest about her teeth without making me feel like a bad mom. I wished my mom took me to a practice like this one when I was a kid. I probably would not have a phobia toward going to the dentist.” - Janelle S.

"Today was our first visit and we were very pleased! The waiting room is clean and friendly- my boys loved the Thomas table! The front desk staff are all very friendly as well. Our dental hygienist and Dr. Jeanine were amazing with both my boys- I went in expecting my 5 year old to be very nervous but he took so well to Dr.Jeanine and had everyone laughing and can't wait to come back in 6 months! My little guy did great with Dr. Jeanine as well- Definitely recommend this office to anyone needing a pediatric dentist!” - Amanda S.

“Amazing staff at the desk...so sweet and so kind! They deserve recognition!! Been going for awhile now and they have made my kids feel so comfortable, and they are so patient when my little one cries. Our previous dentist actually got angry when my older son who was 4 at the time would cry. He was terrified. We are so grateful to have found Adelberg and Montalvan. Saw dr Ericka today and even though my little one needs a lot of work done, and I broke down into tears in the office beating myself up feeling like the worst mom ever... Dr Ericka never made me feel that way. She was kind and patient and explained all our options. Thank you!!” - Susannah J.

“We took our daughter (3yrs) and son (1yr) to see Dr. Marc. He was wonderful. My daughter had such a great experience and loved the fun age appropriate discussion she had with staff. My son, although unsure with what was going on, was treated with such care. Great first experiences all around! The office staff is wonderful to speak with.” - Catie F.

Have you recently visited our office? Leave us a review over on our Facebook page and let us know what you thought! We LOVE to hear from all of our patients and their parents!

If you are new to our practice, learn more about the pediatric dental and orthodontic services that we offer at each of our three Long Island offices on our website — or give us a call directly to speak with us and schedule your next appointment!

Healthy Fall Snacks for Teeth

Are you excited for all things fall? In addition to the changing leaves, the new season also means plenty of new opportunities to snack on festive (healthy) treats. Here are a few of our favorite fall snacks that you can indulge in — without hurting your teeth!

Healthy Fall Snacks:

• Apples! - There are few snacks that say “fall” more than apples! As an added bonus, make it a family trip and head out east to one of our awesome local farms.
• Roasted Pumpkin Seeds - After you carve your jack-o-lanterns this year, be sure to save the seeds! Pumpkin seeds are healthy for your teeth! They’re full of vitamins and mineral like phosphorus, calcium and vitamin D that help repair damaged cells and strengthen bones.
• Pumpkin Pie Pancakes - Don’t stop at pumpkin seeds — the whole pumpkin is full of healthy vitamins and minerals! Try your hand at the ultimate fall breakfast — pumpkin pie pancakes! Keep in mind that you have to use actual pumpkin in order to reap the benefits. Pumpkin flavorings and spices do not have the same health benefits.
• “Candy Corn” Fruit Cup - Instead of snacking on sugary candy corn, put together a candy corn themed fruit cup with orange, pineapple and yogurt! This festive Halloween snack is full of vitamins and minerals that keep your teeth strong.

Ready to schedule a fall dental cleaning? Give on of our three Long Island offices a call — or visit our website to learn more about the pediatric dental services that we have to offer!

How to Celebrate Fall on Long Island

Autumn is one of the best times of year here on Long Island. From apple picking to fall festivals to taking in the changing scenery, there is so much to do! Below, we’ve listed a few of our favorite ways to celebrate fall on Long Island. What is your best way to celebrate?

Go Apple Picking Out East

It’s apple season! Head out to the North Fork and pick your own with family and friends. Not only are they delicious, fresh and season, you can also turn them into your favorite fall treats like cider, pies, and cakes.

Head to the Long Island Fair

A true Long Island Country Fair is a great way to embrace the fall season.  Bring your kids and enjoy puppet shows, live music, a circus, children’s races, and more!

Visit The Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns at Old Westbury Gardens

Throughout the month of October, The Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns will be on display. There will be more than 5,000 hand-carved Jack O’Lanterns made by amazing local artists.

Go for a Hike

There are so many beautiful trails here on Long Island. Enjoy the scenery and enjoy the changing leaves at Avalon Park & Preserve, Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Cold Spring Harbor State Park, Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary, the South Shore Nature Center, and more!

Explore a Corn Maze

Corn mazes are one of the most fall-themed activities you can do here on the island. Head over to one of the many local farms out east and run through the corn mazes with your kids (just don’t get lost!).

Find the Perfect Pumpkin

Before you know it, Halloween will be here. Pick out the perfect pumpkin to sit on your front steps — and of course, to carve into jack-o-lanterns!

What Are Orthodontic Spacers?

When it comes to braces, almost everyone is familiar with the metal brackets and wires that straighten smiles. However, before we can place braces on your teeth, we need to take a few steps to prepare your smile for your new orthodontic treatment. That’s where orthodontic spacers come into play! We’ll dive into what orthodontic spacers are and why you may need them before you get braces below.

Why do you need orthodontic spacers?

Braces are typically attached to a ring that fits right over your back molar. However, most people don’t have space between their back molar and the rest of their smile to fit the band. Orthodontic spacers are used to create a small space between your molars to fit this band so that you can have braces!

When do you get orthodontic spacers?

Once we determine that you are a good candidate for braces, we will put in spacers about one or two weeks before your next appointment where we fit bands on your molars. While they may feel funny for a little while, any tenderness will go away after a couple of days.

How do you care for your teeth with orthodontic spacers?

Continue to brush your teeth well with the separators in place. They won’t fall out! You can eat normally, too. However, we recommend that you avoid foods that are too sticky/chewy.

Does your child need braces? Do you have any questions about how to care for your child’s teeth? Reach out to our office! We are here to answer all of your orthodontic and pediatric dental questions!

Healthy Back-to-School Snacks

The school season is in full swing, but adjusting to your child’s busy schedule doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice your health. There are plenty of easy, back-to-school snacks that you can put together for your little ones while remaining sane. We’ve listed a few of our favorite healthy treats below.

Healthy Back-to-School Snacks:

Apple “Donuts”

Put peanut butter (or almond butter) on apple slices. Sprinkle some coconut for a healthy, no-sugar added treat.

Sandwich Kabobs

Everything's more fun to eat when it’s on a stick! Create a sandwich kabob with your child’s favorite cold cut, cheese (for strong teeth) and some veggies!

Nut-Free Trail Mix

If your child is in a nut-free classroom, create your own batch of trail mix with all their favorites. Mix in their favorite cereal, cinnamon, sunflower seeds, and dried fruits.

Fruits!

The ultimate grab and go snack — fruit! Pack a banana, grapes, apple, or the soccer game favorite - clementines!

Ants on a Log

If nuts are off limits at school, swap them out for long celery sticks with cheese spread and dried cranberries!

Frozen Applesauce

Applesauce is a favorite among kids. It’s easy to pack up with their lunch. If you want to switch it up, freeze the applesauce overnight so that it’s slushy when your child opens it at lunch. This is especially helpful as teeth start to grow in!

If you have any questions at all about how to care for your child’s smile, or you are ready to schedule a back-to-school checkup, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our three Long Island locations.

Why You Should Schedule Your Back-to-School Dental Check Up

Here at Adelberg & Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics, we know that the back-to-school season is a busy time of year for parents and children alike. However, although we know you’re busy dropping your little ones off at school, rushing to work and trying to get to soccer practice on time, we don’t want you to forget to schedule your back-to-school dental check-up!

Why Back-to-School Dental Check-Ups Are Important

• Preventative Care - Taking steps to prevent cavities and keep your child’s oral health and it’s best is so important at a young age. By scheduling bi-annual dental cleanings and exams, we can prevent future tooth decay and keep their teeth healthy and strong.
• Catch Problems Early - At your back-to-school check up, we can catch dental problems early. This includes anything from early signs of tooth decay to noticing that your child may need orthodontic braces down the line. By catching these problems early on, we can keep tiny teeth healthy and ensure that they are happy and confident in their smiles for many years to come.
• Develop Good Oral Health Habits - Bi-annual dental visits are an important habit to keep. Get your children in the habit of scheduling these dental visits from a young age. When it comes time for them to schedule the appointment on their own, they’ll already be in the habit!

Ready to schedule your child’s back-to-school dental check-up? Give one of our three Long Island offices a call to schedule your appointment with us! We are here to keep your child’s tiny teeth healthy all year long!