Children’s Dentist in Locust Valley

Pediatric dentists in Locust Valley are educated and trained to care for infants and children through adolescence. They use skilled techniques to influence behavior and employ numerous treatments to keep young kids’ teeth healthy and strong, transitioning them into young adulthood.

Treatments used in pediatric dentistry include regular cleanings (even with baby teeth), fluoride treatments, orthodontics, and dental sealants.

The rule of thumb is that once you see a tooth in your baby’s mouth, it’s time to see a pediatric dentist. Be sure to schedule an appointment at some point before they turn one. As soon as teeth erupt, they should be cleaned regularly by the parents, and when two teeth erupt next to each other, you’ll need to start flossing as well. These tasks can be turned over to the child when they are able to accomplish them by themselves, usually before the age of six.

Parents can help their infants prepare for a visit to the dentist by modeling what things Dr. Koster may do in the visit, such as opening the mouth for inspection or moving a gloved finger or dental tool around the mouth, while sitting in a chair or on a parent’s lap.

Employing a gum cleaning routine and teething toys early on can also help newborns adapt to their first dentist visit. After eating or breastfeeding, wipe down your baby’s gums with a cloth or gauze to help keep your child’s mouth healthy and free of bacteria.

You can minimize the amount of time you spend in the waiting room, which can be an unpleasant experience for some babies, by filling out the new patient forms online ahead of your visit.

At your baby’s first visit to Locust Valley Dentists, you’ll bring your child into a dental examination room and have them sit either on our dental chair or in your lap, whichever they’re more comfortable with. Dr. Koster will then examine their mouth, looking at any teeth that have erupted, checking the gums, bite, and frenum for any issues, and cleaning the teeth and gums.

Dr. Koster will also provide comprehensive information and recommendations for how to manage your baby’s oral health at home and answer any questions you may have — as many as you have! Finally, she’ll schedule your next appointment, usually around the six-month mark.

In short, yes. The many growth stages that happen in children’s mouths from infancy to adolescence are important to monitor for infection, decay, or injuries. Children can get nearly any mouth disease that adults can, including gum disease, cavities, and poor dental hygiene. In addition, children are at risk for early childhood caries, a condition in which children develop two cavities before the age of six — cavities in baby teeth.

Kids of all ages should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss correctly to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth. Although many things are different between children, teens, and adults, oral hygiene is not one of them.

Pediatric Dentistry FAQs