Smiles for Staten Island’s Littlest Residents
We understand that dental visits can be intimidating for young patients, which is why we strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment that promotes positive experiences at our Staten Island, NY, office with our pediatric dentistry. With a combination of expertise, compassion, and a child-friendly approach, we aim to ensure that each visit is not only beneficial for your child’s oral health but also an enjoyable adventure.
Good Dental Hygiene Begins at Home
Aside from the obvious goal of a healthy mouth, our number one goal in these early years is to set the foundation for strong hygiene habits as they grow older. Along with bringing your child to our Staten Island dental office twice a year, the best thing you can do for your child is to instill good dental hygiene habits at home. As soon as your child is old enough, our dental team will provide some advice on proper brushing and flossing techniques. In the meantime, here are some ways you can help them at home:
- Make it fun– The main reason most children skip their oral hygiene routine is that they find it boring. Try to incorporate a song or a game so they will look forward to brushing their teeth.
- Floss– Teach your child flossing as well as brushing. Even young children should be flossing their teeth regularly.
- Healthy Eating— Limit sodas and other sugary drinks and foods that can damage your child’s teeth.
- Ditch the Binky–Try to wean your child from the pacifier by age three at the latest. This goes for thumb-sucking as well. The pressure from a pacifier or thumb can affect the alignment of their teeth and change the way their smile looks.
- Lead by example– If your child sees you brushing and flossing daily, they’ll be more likely to do it themselves.
Our Pediatric Dental Treatments
Our Staten Island pediatric dentists love working with kids, and we are always especially gentle with them. One of our top goals is to avoid dental anxiety and build a strong foundation for kids to have lifelong healthy habits. By creating a warm, welcoming environment, we can ease your child into their first experience with a dentist.
We can provide your child with the following procedures during their check-ups:
Oral Examinations — Our dentists examine your child’s teeth for signs of potential issues so they can be treated right away. By visiting our Staten Island office for regular checkups, your child can maintain a healthy smile well into adulthood.
Dental Cleanings — We’ll clean and polish your child’s teeth to ensure they have a healthy and beautiful smile. We’ll use special dental tools to remove plaque and tartar from areas of the mouth that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush.
Tooth Extraction — If a tooth becomes impacted or threatens your child’s oral health in any way, we’ll gently remove it to solve the issue. Rest assured, our pediatric dentists will apply an anesthetic to ensure a pain-free experience for your child.
Tooth Fillings — Cavities are a common dental problem for children, which can contribute to gum disease, tooth loss, and other health consequences. If your child has a cavity, our Staten Island dentists can restore the strength and appearance of their tooth with a customized filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I schedule my child's first dental visit?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. This early visit allows your dentist to assess your child’s oral health and provide valuable guidance on proper oral hygiene and nutrition. By starting dental visits at an early age, you can establish a foundation for a lifetime of good oral health habits.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Your dentist suggests regular dental check-ups every six months for most children. These routine visits help monitor your child’s oral health, catch any potential issues early on, and prevent dental problems from progressing. Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits for children with certain conditions or who require specialized dental care.
What is a dental sealant?
We know children aren’t always the most diligent when it comes to their oral health, which is why we can use a dental sealant to help them out. A dental sealant is a painless, effective way to protect your child’s teeth from damage and decay.
This clear plastic coating is “painted” onto the biting surface of a tooth, creating a barrier that keeps bacteria, plaque, and acid out. With the help of sealants, your child can maintain a healthy smile well into adulthood.
What if my child has dental anxiety?
Your dentist and their team create a comfortable and welcoming environment where children feel safe and at ease. They utilize child-friendly techniques and gentle approaches to dental care, ensuring that each visit is a positive and enjoyable experience. In addition, your dentist uses positive reinforcement and clear communication to help children understand the importance of dental care and build trust with the dentist.
Reviews
Excellent dental practice.
“Excellent dental practice – have been going here for many years. Drs Nasso, Olsen and Napolitano are superb, and the hygienists and staff are professional and helpful. I’ve recommended several friends over the years..”
— M.S..
The team of Nasso Olsen Napolitano are a powerhouse!
“The team of Nasso Olsen and Napolitano are a powerhouse. Their services are amongst the best Dental work I’ve ever had- comprehensive and most importantly safe and right the first time! Been to many dentists in my lifetime, and this team discusses options, impacts and the cost up front with patients. They focus on your comfort and follow up the day later to ensure no abnormalities from the work performed Highly recommended..”
— J.S.
Friendly, efficient staff…
“Friendly, efficient staff who thoroughly explained everything along the way and made me feel that my well being was important to them..”
— J.P.
Smile Profile
Make it a family affair.
Creating Happy Little Smiles in Staten Island
Don’t let your child’s dental health be a source of worry or fear. Experience the compassionate care and expertise of Dr. Napolitano, the trusted name in pediatric dentistry in Staten Island, NY. Our dedicated team is here to create a positive and nurturing environment where your child feels safe and comfortable.
With a focus on gentle treatment and personalized care, we’ll ensure your little one’s smile shines bright. Take the first step towards a lifetime of healthy smiles by contacting us at (718) 948-5111 and scheduling an appointment. Together, let’s give your child the gift of confident and happy oral health.