PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF POUGHKEEPSIE

Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings, and once the first tooth appears, use a small, soft toothbrush and water twice a day.

Your child should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting.

Pediatric dentists specialize in children’s oral health, offering kid-friendly care, smaller tools, and extra training to help little ones feel comfortable.

Baby bottle tooth decay happens when sugary liquids sit on your baby’s teeth. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle and clean their teeth regularly.

Thumb sucking is normal in early childhood, but if it continues past age 3–4, it can affect tooth alignment or jaw growth.

Sealants are thin protective coatings applied to back teeth to seal out food and bacteria, preventing cavities in hard-to-clean grooves.

Start using a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears; increase to a pea-sized amount at age three.

Rinse the area with warm water, check for debris, and call our office—avoid placing aspirin or heat on the sore tooth or gums.

Fluoride is found in most community water supplies and toothpaste; our dentists can evaluate your child’s needs and recommend supplements if necessary.

Dental X-rays are very safe—modern digital technology uses extremely low radiation and helps us detect problems early.

Most babies get their first teeth between 6 and 10 months, though timing can vary from child to child.

Keep the tooth moist, place it back in the socket or in milk, and call us immediately for emergency care.

Gently rub your baby’s gums or offer a chilled (not frozen) teething ring to soothe discomfort.

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria feed on sugars, producing acids that erode enamel. Regular brushing, healthy snacks, and dental visits help prevent it.