Here at State Street Smiles, we are proud to offer dental care that is both passionate and caring to our patients in the Hackensack, New Jersey area. This quality care, as provided by our pediatric specialist, Dr. Edward Jackson is available to even the youngest patients. We take immense pleasure in providing pediatric dentistry for the youngest members of our community. Dr. Eddie and our friendly team understand the challenges and special needs our children present when visiting the dentist. We are here to help ensure that their smiles develop in a healthy and proper manner.
Benefits of Pediatric Dentistry
By choosing a dental office offering pediatric dental services, you are choosing a team with specific training in handling young children and addressing their very specific needs. Proper care and treatment of a developing mouth will lay the foundation for one’s lifetime oral health. We offer both preventive and restorative dental care for children, allowing us to prevent future problems while addressing any current oral health concerns. Children can have difficulty expressing themselves when they have a dental health concern or issue. Younger children, especially, may lack the vocabulary necessary to adequately describe what they are feeling. Visiting a pediatric dentist will help identify and treat these specific issues before they get worse.
If you have children with special needs, we look forward to seeing them as well! We understand that early intervention is paramount to children dealing with other pressing medical issues. Preventing oral health issues before they can happen can take the burden of extra dental work off parents and children alike. If you are concerned that your child might be challenging to bring to a dental appointment, we urge you to bring them in. We have the expertise to work with all kids and prevent major oral health problems.
A Great Experience For Your Child
We are all aware that children do not typically enjoy visiting the dentist. This is why we have created a dental experience that keeps their comfort in mind. We want your child’s visit to be easy from start to finish. We are happy to provide a reception area that is calm and inviting, allowing your child to be at ease as they await the start of their appointment. Our dental office has iPads mounted on the walls and TVs installed on the ceilings. We also have a room filled with exciting prizes that are loved by children of all ages. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell whether the kids leave after a dental appointment or a fun playdate.
Our team is experienced in effective communication and is great at relating to children of all ages. As a parent, we know you may have concerns or questions about your child’s upcoming appointment, so we are here to answer any questions. Simply call us ahead of your child’s appointment, and we will be happy to go over anything you require.
To schedule an appointment with one of our dental specialists, please call our Hackensack, NJ office today at (201) 487-7030.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child start using floss?
Children should start flossing as soon as they have two teeth that touch. This typically happens around the age of 2-3 years. While it may seem early, flossing is crucial for cleaning between teeth, where toothbrushes can’t reach. Parents can help guide and supervise until the child has the talent to floss independently, usually by age 8-10. Introducing floss early establishes good oral hygiene habits, prevents plaque buildup, and reduces the risk of cavities between teeth.
How does thumb-sucking affect my child’s teeth?
If thumb-sucking continues after the age of 3 or 4, it can lead to dental issues. This habit may cause misalignment of the teeth, bite problems (such as an open bite), and changes in the shape of the roof of the mouth. If thumb-sucking persists as permanent teeth begin to come in, orthodontic treatment could be required down the line. Pediatric dentists can offer strategies and advice to help your child stop thumb-sucking, ensuring their teeth develop properly without long-term issues.
Why are dental sealants important for baby teeth?
Dental sealants benefit baby teeth by protecting against cavities, particularly on the molars with grooves that are harder to clean. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a critical role in guiding permanent teeth into place and maintaining space. Cavities in baby teeth can cause discomfort, lead to infection, or result in early tooth loss, affecting speech development and chewing. Sealants provide an extra layer of defense, helping your child maintain healthy teeth until the permanent ones are ready to erupt.
Can dental X-rays be harmful to my child?
Dental X-rays for children are generally safe, thanks to advancements in digital technology that reduce radiation exposure. The amount of radiation from modern X-rays is extremely low and comparable to what we are exposed to naturally in the environment. Additionally, pediatric dentists use protective measures, such as lead aprons and thyroid collars, to minimize exposure. X-rays are important for detecting issues that are not visible during a regular exam, such as cavities between teeth, bone abnormalities, or problems with the growth of permanent teeth.
How can I help my child avoid dental anxiety during visits?
To help your child avoid dental anxiety, start by introducing them to the dentist at a young age, ideally before any issues arise. Make dental visits fun and positive, and avoid using words like “pain” or “hurt” when talking about the dentist. You can also play pretend dentist at home to familiarize them with the process. Pediatric dentists are trained to create a child-friendly environment and often use techniques like “tell-show-do” to ease children into treatments. Consistent, positive experiences will help your child feel more comfortable over time.
Can tooth decay affect my child’s speech development?
Yes, untreated tooth decay in children can affect speech development. Teeth, particularly the front ones, are crucial in forming sounds. If a child loses baby teeth prematurely due to decay, it can interfere with their ability to pronounce certain words correctly. Additionally, discomfort from decayed teeth may make them reluctant to speak. A healthy set of teeth ensures proper speech development, so it’s important to maintain regular dental check-ups and address any dental issues promptly to avoid complications with your child’s speech.
Why does my child need fluoride if they drink fluoridated water?
Even if your child drinks fluoridated water, additional fluoride from toothpaste or treatments can be beneficial. Fluoridated water helps protect teeth from decay, but depending on your local water source, the fluoride concentration may not be sufficient for optimal protection. Professional fluoride treatments at the dentist’s office provide a higher concentration, offering extra protection for developing teeth. Children are also more prone to cavities, and the combination of fluoridated water, toothpaste, and professional treatments ensures their teeth are well-defended against decay.
