Information for Parents about Children's Dental Care

Glenn J. Marie, DDS, is a pediatric dentist who provides oral care to children, young adults, and individuals with special needs. His dental practice, Dentistry for Children, has served the Staten Island area since 1990. As a pediatric dentist, Glenn J. Marie, DDS, possesses special training to provide dental treatment specific to younger patients.

How are pediatric dentists different from general dentists?

Just as a pediatrician differs from a general internist who provides primary care to adults, pediatric dentists differ from general family dentists. Pediatric dentists generally acquire two to three years of specialty training in the oral health treatment of children. 

When should a child first visit a pediatric dentist?

Because dental problems may start early, children should visit a pediatric dentist after the eruption of the first tooth and no later than the child’s first birthday. The dentist can ensure that the child’s teeth are developing correctly and recommend preventative care. Visiting the dentist as an infant will also help the child establish a dental home early in life. 

After the first visit, a child should visit the dentist about once every six months. Even though a child’s baby teeth are temporary, it is important to take care of them because problems with baby teeth can cause the permanent teeth to develop improperly. A pediatric dentist can help ensure a strong dental platform and avoid significant orthodontic treatment in the future.

What oral health problems more commonly occur in children?

Some behaviors and habits common in children can impact the development of their teeth. Baby bottle tooth decay occurs when a baby’s teeth come into frequent contact with sugars that mix with bacteria in the mouth to produce acids, resulting in tooth decay. Tongue thrusting, lip sucking, and thumb sucking may also impact tooth development by exerting undue pressure on the front teeth, which can create an overbite over time. Through behavioral modification, all of these oral problems are preventable.