Part of our mission at Oelbaum & Kagan Dentistry is to educate patients on the importance of good dental health. For both functional and aesthetic reasons, good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can go a long way in maintaining a healthy, fresh, and beautiful smile. Our team has provided a plethora of useful information about proper oral hygiene for children, as well as answers to common inquiries like how often you should visit the dentist, what to do during a dental emergency, and more.

Oral Hygiene for Children
Frequently Asked Questions

Oral Hygiene for Children

A large number of studies and thorough research over the years has confirmed that good oral hygiene and routine dental care should begin as early in life as possible. Research has shown that the most common chronic disease in American children is tooth decay, afflicting nearly 50 percent of those in the first grade and 80 percent of adolescents aged 17 and under. According to the National Institute of Dental & Craniofacial Research, an estimated 52 million school hours will be missed and about 12.5 million days of restricted activity will be incurred due to oral health problems. Early dental treatment and preventative oral care can work wonders in improving the health, self-image, and achievement of your child.

Parents can ensure their children are practicing good dental hygiene by introducing proper oral care early in life – even in infancy. Some tips from the American Dental Hygiene Association include:

Clean your baby’s gums after each feeding with a wet infant cloth to remove food and stimulate the gum tissue.
When your baby’s teeth start coming through, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush with a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste to clean the teeth.
Proper brushing techniques should be taught at about age two or three; later, both brushing and flossing routines should be implemented.
Regular checkups with a dentist should be scheduled to check for cavities and possible developmental dental problems.
Children should be encouraged to talk about any fears or anxieties they have about visiting the dentist; however, words like “pain” or “hurt” should be avoided, as they could instill the possibility of discomfort in a child’s thought process.
You should determine if your home water supply is fluoridated. If it is not, you can discuss fluoride supplement options with your dentist or dental hygienist.
Talk with your dentist or hygienist about dental sealants to protect your child’s chewing surfaces. Also, ask him or her about bottle tooth decay — a condition which can occur when the teeth are frequently exposed to sugary liquids.

“The best dental practice I have ever visited…..wonderful dentist with the greatest chair side manner and expertise…all staff is highly qualified, knowledgeable and friendly….I feel very comfortable here and the quality of the work is fabulous. Definitely top notch dental practice…”

- Maribel R. | Actual Patient

General FAQs

Please take a look at our answers to commonly asked questions about dentistry and dental care at our Bronx and New York City-area practice.

How often should I go to the dentist?

You should visit the dentist for a checkup and professional dental cleaning at least twice per year, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

What will happen on my first visit?

When you come in to Oelbaum & Kagan Dentistry, one of our team members will gather your medical and dental history. Then, we will give you a thorough oral exam, screen you for oral cancer, and make x-rays of your teeth, if necessary. We will also give you an exam to determine if you are affected by TMJ disorder. After your exams are complete, we will discuss your diagnosis and determine the best course of action for treatment, as well as the fees associated with that plan. We will also refer you to qualified specialists should you need specialized dental care.

What will happen on my regular or follow-up visit?

During a regular or follow-up office visit at our practice, your teeth and gums will be examined and we will screen you for oral cancer. We will also clean your teeth and develop a treatment plan if necessary. You are encouraged to ask any question you may have, and discuss any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.

What steps do you take for patients with dental anxiety?

Oelbaum & Kagan Dentistry tries very hard to make all of our treatments as quick and painless as possible. We will discuss all aspects of treatment with you before the procedure, and take steps to alleviate the possibility of pain by whatever means that are most comfortable to you.

What about dental emergencies?

Our office should be contacted as soon as possible to determine if you have a dental emergency. We would be happy to work you into our daily schedule during regular business hours. Should you have a dental emergency, our dentists have established emergency contact numbers that can provide urgent care after hours and on holidays and weekends. Please call our office in the event of a dental emergency.

Are dental payment plans available?

Yes. We accept a variety of dental insurance plans and will process your claim for you once you have made any necessary co-payments. We also offer financing opportunities with low-interest payment plans, and accept most major credit cards.

Please contact Oelbaum & Kagan Dentistry for more information about maintaining good dental health habits for your children. Our team can help you keep your children’s teeth and gums healthy and bright!