Parents juggle a lot. Keeping cavities away shouldn’t be another stressor. The right routine—plus a few well-timed professional steps—keeps kids’ teeth strong and visits easy. At Airmont Dental Service in Suffern, NY, our family dentistry care focuses on practical steps that fit real life. Here’s a no-drama plan for healthy smiles from toddler years through the teens.
Begin brushing when the first tooth appears using a rice-grain smear of fluoride toothpaste. Around age three, move to a pea-sized amount with supervision. Angle bristles toward the gumline and spend a few gentle seconds on every surface. Nighttime brushing is non-negotiable; saliva flow drops during sleep, which is prime time for cavities to start.
Fluoride strengthens enamel and makes it more resistant to acids. For higher-risk kids, we may apply fluoride varnish during checkups. At home, an age-appropriate toothpaste and an alcohol-free rinse (for older kids who can spit reliably) keep protection steady.
First and second molars have deep grooves that trap food. Sealants flow into these grooves and harden into a smooth surface, making them easier to clean. Application is quick and comfortable—no numbing, no drilling. We typically place them when molars erupt and check them routinely.
Frequent snacking bathes teeth in acids. Structure snack time instead of grazing all afternoon, and offer water between meals. Cheese, nuts, and crisp fruits are better choices than sticky sweets. If juice is on the menu, serve it with meals, not as a sipper; then follow with water.
Custom mouthguards protect teeth and soft tissues during sports. They also reduce the risk of dental emergencies. If a bump happens anyway, call our emergency dentistry team for same-day guidance.
Kids and teens in orthodontic treatment need extra attention to cleaning. Show your child how to angle the brush around brackets and use floss threaders or a water flosser nightly. If clear aligners are part of the plan, remind them to brush before reinserting trays.
We take images only as needed to monitor growth and detect cavities between teeth. Digital x-rays use very low radiation, and we’ll explain what each image shows.
Young kids love timers and music; older kids respond to choice—let them pick brush color or toothpaste flavor. Keep flossers within reach, and consider a family chart to celebrate streaks. Consistency builds habits that last.
Most pediatric cavities are preventable with a few steady habits and well-timed sealants. We’ll help you set a routine that works for your child’s personality and schedule.
Ready to schedule an easy first visit? Call Us Today at (845) 357-0970 or Contact Us. Explore family dentistry and exam and cleaning to see how we care for kids at every stage.
