Family Dentistry

What is a pediatric dental visit like?

Your first dental visit with Dr. Malkis and the team is primarily about meeting the dentist and establishing a relationship with him. After meeting, Dr. Malkis examines your child’s teeth and mouth for any potential problems. He checks for tooth decay, looks at their bite, and inspects their gums, jaw, and oral tissues for problematic symptoms. If needed, the hygienist may clean your child’s teeth and assess if they need a fluoride treatment.

The team is happy to answer any questions you may have about your child’s dental care. Some of the topics Dr. Malkis may discuss during the visit include:

• Your child’s oral hygiene practices
• What you and your child can do to prevent cavities
• Whether your child needs a fluoride treatment
• Your child’s general health and nutrition

How can parents help prevent tooth decay?

You can prevent tooth decay in your child simply by encouraging healthy habits early on. Here are just some of the ways you can help:

Frequent mouth checks

Until your child is about six years old, you should be administering the actual brushing and flossing yourself. Once they are capable of performing their own brushing and flossing, you should still check their teeth for plaque or debris afterward.

Asking the dentist about sealants

Sealants are thin coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars. They prevent tooth decay by forming a shield over the enamel. Dentists recommend that you get your child’s molars sealed as soon as they come in.

Providing better snacks

One of the best ways to prevent tooth decay in your child is limiting the amount of sugary foods and drinks they have, especially in between meals. Crunchy, fresh snacks like apples, carrots, and celery are best — they’re healthier and also help scrub plaque from teeth. Recent studies have shown that 100% fruit juices are not cariogenic, it is advised to avoid juices that are not made of 100% fruit.

How often does my child need to see the dentist?

Most pediatric dentists recommend that your child has a dental cleaning and examination every six months. However, each child is different and has specific needs, so it’s best to schedule an appointment with Dr. Malkis so he can determine a plan that works best for your child.

At Larchmont Family Dental, we make dental cleanings easy and gentle on children of all ages. To schedule a visit, call the office or book an appointment online.

We offer teeth whitening and dental exams for surrounding cities such as Bayberry, Beechmont Woods, Mamaroneck, Rochelle Park, Sutton Manor, Wykagyl Park, Harrison, Bonnie Crest, and more. Call us to book your appointment today.