Dentist Visit

Not brushing for long enough: Children may not brush for the recommended two minutes, which can leave plaque and bacteria behind.

1. Not using enough toothpaste: Using too little toothpaste can decrease the effectiveness of brushing.
2. Not using a fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and prevent tooth decay, so it is important to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
3. Not brushing in circular motions: Brushing in circular motions helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums more effectively.
4. Not brushing the tongue: The tongue can harbor bacteria that can contribute to bad breath and tooth decay, so it is important to brush the tongue as well.
5. Not replacing the toothbrush regularly: Toothbrushes should be replaced every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
6. Brushing too hard: Brushing too hard can damage the gums and tooth enamel.
7. Not flossing: Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth, which brushing alone cannot do.
8. Not rinsing the mouth after brushing: Rinsing the mouth after brushing helps to remove any remaining plaque and bacteria.
9. Not brushing before bed: It is important to brush before bed to remove plaque and bacteria that have accumulated during the day.
10. Not brushing after eating sugary or acidic foods: Brushing after eating sugary or acidic foods can help to neutralize the acid and remove any stuck food particles.
11. Not brushing in the morning: Brushing in the morning helps to remove any bacteria and plaque that may have formed overnight.

It is important for children to brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. It is also important for children to brush and floss correctly in order to get the most benefit from their oral hygiene routine.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?
We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

It's National Children's dental health month ( Feb ) as well as National Gum Disease Awareness month!
Let's take a look at some gum health facts

1. Plaque buildup can lead to gum disease, which is why proper brushing and flossing are important for children.

2. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. This can result from a lack of a good routine of children's oral health.

3. Children should brush their teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once a day.

4. Tooth decay and gum disease can start as early as age 3.

5. Eating sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities and gum disease.

6. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important for gum health.

7. Saliva helps to protect teeth and gums against bacteria and acid.

8. Brushing and flossing should be part of a daily routine.

9. Healthy gums are pink, firm and do not bleed easily.

Sometimes are little ones are a bit apprehensive at the thought of a dental visit
and it is more common than we think. There's machines with whizzling sounds,
a lot of people around, and other sounds that play against their fears of the dentist.

Here are a few tips for preparing for a dental cleaning:

1. A Pretend Dental Visit can be fun at home before the actual visit.

Have fun with it and have them engage. Include their teddy bears or any other stuffed  animals they may have.

2. Don't wait too long to take them to their first dental visit

A recommended practice is to bring them for their first dental visit around their first birthday. Getting them used to dental visits early is a good strategy for letting them know that dental visits are part of life's normal activities.

3. Keep them calm before a dental visit for children.

Set an example of calmness, treat it like a fun dental adventure,
use positive reinforcement, and maybe let them bring an object
of comfort like a teddy bear.

4. Brush and floss thoroughly before the appointment.

It's important to remove as much plaque and food debris as possible from your teeth before the cleaning. This will make the cleaning process easier and more effective.

5. Bring a list of any medications you are taking.

It's important for the dental professional to know about any medications you are taking, as some medications can affect your oral health.

6. Wear comfortable clothing.

You may be in the dental chair for a while, so it's important to wear comfortable clothes that allow you to relax.

7. Bring a list of any questions or concerns you have.

It's a good idea to write down any questions or concerns you have before the appointment so you don't forget to ask them.

8. Arrive on time.

Try to arrive at the dental office a few minutes early to allow time to fill out any necessary paperwork. Get to know the location, staff, and how it works.

It's important to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing braces to keep your teeth and gums healthy. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and seeing a dental professional for regular cleanings and checkups.

Did you know that setting an appointment, addressing costs,
and using insurance is easier than you may think?

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?
We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444
Dover (973) 891-4015

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call.

It’s National dental hygiene month!  October!
Here's a quick easy look at prevention of tooth decay.
.
1. Don’t share utensils with your child or “clean” a pacifier by putting it in your mouth. You can transfer cavity-causing germs to your child

2. Eat healthy and drink flouridated water

3. First dental visit: No later than 1 year old

4. Use flouride toothpaste

5. Seal out decay: Ask your dentist about applying dental sealants to chewing surfaces of teeth.

Children's general Dentist Location:

Smile Central Dental
Dentist, Paterson, NJ
Orthodontics, Paterson, NJ

Address:
140 Market Street
Paterson, NJ 07505
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor  (x 21 or x22 )
Children's General Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Treatment - 4th Floor

Phone: (973) 742-4200
Fax: (973) 742-4997

Paterson - Dental Office Manager: Cristal Jimenez
Paterson - Ortho Office Manager: Maria Gutierrez

About Our Practice
Smile Central Dental has always emphasized that outstanding people are the key to our success. Our strength and future growth depend on the contributions made by our team and each person within our organization. To ensure continued success, we feel it is important that all employees understand our policies and procedures. We hold them to that standard and they perform to the highest level. 
Our staff is dedicated to serving our community and providing the very best care.

Mission Statement
Smile Central Dental’s mission is to enhance the life of anyone we come in contact with. We accomplish this by educating both children and parents on the importance of their dental health, eradicating cavities on our beloved patients, and providing all members of our team with an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. All this while proudly serving the communities we are in that have given us the opportunity to do what we love.

Baby teeth start to develop before a child's first birthday and most children have a full set of teeth by their third birthday. As these teeth typically fall out within 3-4 yrs, it's a common belief that they are not important. This can't be further than the truth.

A tooth infection/cavity if deep enough can certainly affect the growth of the underlying adult tooth. A dental cavity if left untreated can extend deep in the tooth and to the surrounding teeth and gum area below. A pus-filled infection, an abscess can then form on the underlying permanent tooth that has to erupt eventually. This can delay or prevent the eruption of the adult tooth or can cause discoloration, malformations, and permanent staining of the adult tooth.

It is important to understand why good oral health is essential in baby teeth.
Baby teeth...

- Act as space holders for permanent teeth that will eventually erupt
- Help guide the permanent teeth into place
- Help children in chewing food and speaking properly during their critical developmental years.

Cavities in baby teeth affect permanent teeth and can cause several different types of problems.

Harm to Overall Oral Health

Cavities affect baby teeth the same way they affect permanent teeth. If left untreated, it may compromise a child’s overall oral health. The bacterial spread will attack neighboring teeth, and a significant untreated cavity could lead to an abscess and/or tooth loss, not to forget physical pain and emotional distress. Tooth loss due to damaged primary teeth cause problems with jaw structure, growth, and occlusion.

Orthodontic Issues

With a significantly larger cavity, there will eventually be tooth loss, giving rise to orthodontic issues. Adjacent teeth may shift to fill the space left behind by the missing /lost baby tooth that becomes a problem when the permanent teeth erupt and there is a lack of space. This can cause teeth misalignment.

Poor Oral Health Habits

Starting your kids early will help them establish good lifelong habits. Instill the importance of good oral health habits with children from a young age. You can lead by example and brush and floss side by side each morning and night.

Preventing cavities and keeping Baby teeth healthy

Remember healthy baby teeth set a solid foundation for strong permanent teeth. Bring your children routinely to the dentist and take care of their teeth at home by following the basic rule of brushing at least twice a day.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?
We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic  ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call (973) 742-4200

About Our Practice
Smile Central Dental has always emphasized that outstanding people are the key to our success. Our strength and future growth depend on the contributions made by our team and each person within our organization. To ensure continued success, we feel it is important that all employees understand our policies and procedures. We hold them to that standard and they perform to the highest level.
Our staff is dedicated to serving our community and providing the very best care.

Mission Statement
Smile Central Dental’s mission is to enhance the life of anyone we come in contact with. We accomplish this by educating both children and parents on the importance of their dental health, eradicating cavities on our beloved patients, and providing all members of our team with an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. All this while proudly serving the communities we are in that have given us the opportunity to do what we love.

Children's general Dentist Location:

Smile Central Hudson County
Address:
3196 Kennedy Boulevard
3rd Floor
Union City, NJ 07087

Phone: (201) 325-8444
Fax: (201) 325-8447

Office Manager: Inocencia Troncoso
Current Operation Hours

About Our Practice
Smile Central Dental has always emphasized that outstanding people are the key to our success. Our strength and future growth depend on the contributions made by our team and each person within our organization. To ensure continued success, we feel it is important that all employees understand our policies and procedures. We hold them to that standard and they perform to the highest level. 
Our staff is dedicated to serving our community and providing the very best care.

Mission Statement
Smile Central Dental’s mission is to enhance the life of anyone we come in contact with. We accomplish this by educating both children and parents on the importance of their dental health, eradicating cavities on our beloved patients, and providing all members of our team with an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. All this while proudly serving the communities we are in that have given us the opportunity to do what we love.

Children's general Dentist Location:

Smile Central Dental
Dentist, Paterson, NJ
Orthodontics, Paterson, NJ

Address:
140 Market Street
Paterson, NJ 07505
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor  (x 21 or x22 )
Children's general Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Treatment - 4th Floor

Phone: (973) 742-4200
Fax: (973) 742-4997

Paterson - Dental Office Manager: Cristal Jimenez

Paterson - Ortho Office Manager: Maria Gutierrez

Current Operation Hours

About Our Practice
Smile Central Dental has always emphasized that outstanding people are the key to our success. Our strength and future growth depend on the contributions made by our team and each person within our organization. To ensure continued success, we feel it is important that all employees understand our policies and procedures. We hold them to that standard and they perform to the highest level. 
Our staff is dedicated to serving our community and providing the very best care.

Mission Statement
Smile Central Dental’s mission is to enhance the life of anyone we come in contact with. We accomplish this by educating both children and parents on the importance of their dental health, eradicating cavities on our beloved patients, and providing all members of our team with an opportunity to grow personally and professionally. All this while proudly serving the communities we are in that have given us the opportunity to do what we love.

Children's general Dentist Location:

Smile Central Passaic
Address:
625 Main Ave
Passaic, NJ 07055
Children's general Dentistry - 3rd Floor

Phone: (973) 574-1000
Fax: (973) 574-1001

Office Manager: Esther Toledo
Current Operation Hours

Is the appointment schedule convenient?

Is the office easy to get to and close by?

Does the office appear to be clean and orderly?

Was your medical and dental history recorded and placed in a permanent file?

Does the dentist explain techniques for good oral health?

Is information about cost presented to you before treatment is scheduled?

Is your dentist a member of the ADA (American Dental Association)?

Know the difference between a children's general dentist and a family dentist.
Family dentists provide general dentistry for all ages, not only children.

Take a look at google reviews. Genuine accounts from people who
leave reviews can be helpful when seeking a good children's general dentist.
Beware of irrational statements, however.

Schedule Consultations With Each children's general Dentist.
Scheduling consultations can help with getting beneficial information.

You need to find a dentist who has strong behavior management skills.
Our doctors hold themselves to a high standard, professionalism, care, and making sure that patients feel comfortable.

Do They Have Special Training?
Our Doctors are not only licensed practitioners, but they have continuing education credentials and continue to stay updated in children's general dentistry.

Do They Have a Fun, Clean, and Comfortable Environment?
At our practice, we believe in helping our patients be at ease and having a fun and engaging experience.

Do They Take A Preventative Approach?
Our team has a systematic approach to preventive dental care.

Location.
When it comes to children, choosing a dentist that is close is good practice.

How are the practices of customer service?
We are dedicated to providing not only the very best dental care but excellent experiences and customer service as well.

Make your pick And Schedule Your Child’s First Appointment!
If your child has not been to the dentist yet, it would be a great preventive measure to schedule and attend a dental visit.

Looking for the best kids dentist near the Paterson, Passaic, and Union City areas?
We are here serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.
Paterson(973) 742-4200
Passaic  ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call (973) 742-4200

When a permanent tooth starts erupting under a baby tooth, the root of the baby tooth is resorbed and the permanent tooth takes its place. 

Sometimes the permanent tooth starts erupting in the mouth while the baby tooth is still there - this is known as shark teeth because of its appearance. It usually occurs in the lower and upper front teeth. If the baby tooth does not get out itself then it has to be extracted and the permanent tooth will naturally come in its place.

What causes Shark teeth?

Most commonly, at the age of 5-7 years, the permanent teeth start to push the baby tooth so they shed off. But sometimes the baby teeth don't want to leave the baby’s mouth and the permanent one comes right behind it and causes two rows of teeth to exist, one of the adult teeth and one of the baby teeth.

When should baby teeth fall out?

In total, a child has 20 baby teeth ( 10 upper and 10 lower) which start erupting at the age of 6 months. All these teeth come off before the age of 12 years. The permanent adult teeth are 32 in total and start erupting from the age of 6yrs.

What should you do if your baby has 2 rows of teeth?

For this case, there are some solutions for you. If the baby tooth is loose, tell your child to wiggle it out so it can come out on itself naturally. If the tooth is not loose you can take an appointment with a Children's general dentist. The dentist will perform a tooth extraction to remove the baby's tooth. If one of the front teeth grows the teeth behind it then it's most likely possible that the other one will do the same because pairs of teeth often act the same way. So instead of two visits, you can wait for the other adult tooth to grow so you can get your child’s teeth extracted in the same visit.

If your child is experiencing erupted teeth behind their front teeth,
Call the Paterson Office (973) 742-4200 to schedule an appointment or
Passaic  ( 973) 574-1000
Union City(201) 325-8444

Serving Paterson, Passaic, and Hudson NJ, and the surrounding communities, we offer comprehensive oral health services ranging from routine cleanings to emergency treatment. We are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment to keep all members of the family comfortable in the office.

Find reviews and updates on Facebook, learn more about our practice online, or give us a call (973) 742-4200

So what's the big deal about dental X-rays anyway? In fact,
these tests are one of the most important ways for dentists
to identify potential problems in teeth before they get worse.

Why dental X-rays are used?

Dental X-rays can help to see problems that cannot necessarily
be seen by an oral exam. They are used to track the progress of a dental
issue and/or treatment. This is done typically yearly - twice a year.
*Reasons for Dental Xrays:

Your age
Your current oral health
Pain in the gums
Bone loss in the jaw
Any symptoms of oral disease
A history of gum disease (gingivitis) or tooth decay
Decay development
Space in the mouth for incoming teeth.
Wisdom teeth development
If teeth are unable to emerge through the gums.
Decay beneath existing fillings.

Are there risks involved with Dental X-Rays?

Not to worry.
Risks from radiation exposure by using Dental X-rays are
extremely low.

When taking X-rays, to prevent exposure, dentists or
dental assistants will place a "bib-like" Vest over your chest,
abdomen, and pelvic area that are regulated by federal laws.

Children are well taken care of at Smile Central Dental.
Our practitioners and assistants are certified personnel,
are professional and dedicated to your child's safety at all times.

Types of Dental Exams:

The first type of exam you'll be given is usually referred to as a "dental assessment exam" or "dental point of care" exam. X-rays used in dental point of care exams are used to determine how healthy your teeth, jaw, and gums are.
Specifically, They are used to identify potential problems with teeth,
such as gum disease, cavities, tooth decay, and tooth sensitivity.

The X-rays will be taken using an endosseous ruler that is held
against your gum tissue. Using this ruler will give a closer
look at the teeth and the extent of any problems in teeth.

What can Dental X-Rays Find?

Looking at the types of X-rays will help to understand
what can be found.

Bitewing: dental X-ray designed to the crowns of the upper and
lower teeth simultaneously and to see if they match up.
One would bite down on a bar with a plastic
protective material to ensure the patient does not get exposed
to bacteria and germs.
This xray can help determine if there is decay between teeth.
In addition, it can detect filling wear.

Occlusal: This dental x-ray can show the roof of the mouth and detect
extra teeth that have not erupted through your child's gums.
In addition, it can help detect cysts, abscesses, growths, jaw fractures,
and cleft palates, and even foreign objects.

Periapical: This dental x-ray gives a full view of the tooth.
This includes the root to the crown. This is to see if there is
any changes in the bone structure surrounding the root.

Intraoral X-rays: This dental x-ray helps dentists locate cavities,
review root health, review bone structure, and the Jawbone.

ExtraoralX-rays: This dental x-ray helps dentists look at Skull and Jaw
bones, impacted teeth, jaw development, and to identify problems between the
temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and teeth.
These x-rays are typically not used to detect individual tooth problems
or cavities.

Panoramic: This dental x-ray is used for reviewing tooth development,
finding impacted or emerging teeth and can display the entire mouth.

Tomograms: This dental x-ray shows just a portion/side of the mouth.

How often should a child have their teeth x-rayed?

Children: Children generally need X-rays done more often than adults
because their teeth and jaws are still in development and are susceptible
to be affected by tooth decay.

After dental X-Rays:::::: Re-write this when you come back!

- The dentist will review the xray results for abnormalities.
- A dental hygienist may perform a cleaning
- If a cavity is found, a dentist may discuss with you the options
for treatment such as a filling may be put in place and the crown
of the tooth restored.

- If tooth decay is detected, a root canal treatment may be done to remove any infected tissue and disposed of with the teeth.

To schedule a first consultation or visit, please contact us at
one of our locations:
SCHEDULE an appointment here

February is National Children's Dental Health Month
but celebrating children's dental health month is all
year-round for us.

News!:
February 2021 is National Children's Dental Health Month.

2021 NCDHM Campaign

This is brought to you by the ADA.
This is a national month-long observance. It brings together thousands of dedicated professionals, healthcare providers, and educators to promote the benefits of good oral health to children, their caregivers, teachers, and many others.

Fun Activity Sheets for the children!

Looking for Healthy smile quick Tips!

• Children should brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
at night before bedtime is an excellent time to do so.
• Children should clean between their teeth daily.
• Children should eat a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks.
• See your dentist regularly for prevention and treatment of oral disease

Babys first birthday equals baby's first checkup
Subtitle: What happens at baby's first dentist visit?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a dental visit for children by age one.

Many parents may not know that baby teeth can get cavities just as permanent teeth can. Primary teeth/Baby teeth are necessary for children to chew and speak as well as to hold space for developing permanent teeth below the gums.

What are the benefits of visiting a children's general Dentist by age one?

• Cavity prevention starts when they have their first tooth.
• Starting when your child is young will allow them to become familiar with visits to the dentist.
• Being proactive early can help keep their pearly whites healthy for life.
• Earlier visits can be helpful for the detection of early tooth decay or any other dental developmental anomalies as well as provide parents with information on proper oral hygiene and development, and answer questions.

Recent studies show early childhood tooth decay to be on the rise.  Earlier visits to a children's general Dentist can prevent childhood tooth decay through education and regular visits.

Here is how you can make your child’s first dental visit a successful one:

• Be positive and show excitement before and during your child’s first visit to the dentist. If you show any anxiety that you may have about visiting the dentist, your child would also be scared.
• Talk about it-  use books and relevant resources to help prepare and get your child familiar with visiting the dentist.
• Timing is vital- Plan beforehand so that you have plenty of time and arrive early so your visit is not rushed.  Make sure your child is well-rested before the visit so they are comfortable.  Morning is usually the best time for young children to visit the dentist.
• Start them early-  Starting healthy habits like proper oral hygiene at an early age is important to prevent problems. 

What Happens at the First Dental Visit?

The first dental visit is usually brief. It gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening and friendly way and involves little to no treatment. 

During the visit, your dentist will 

• Examine all existing teeth for decay. Hint: When that first tooth erupts. You can visit the dentist.
• Look at your child's bite
• Get a look for any potential problems with the gums, jaw, and oral tissues.

Your children's general dentist would also educate you about oral health care basics for children and discuss dental developmental issues and answer any questions that you might have.

To schedule a first consultation or visit, please contact us at
one of our locations:

1. 140 Market St, Paterson, NJ 07505
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
Orthodontics Center - 2nd Floor
Treatment Center - 4th Floor
(973) 742-4200

2. 625 Main Ave
Passaic, NJ 07055
Children's Dentistry - 3rd Floor
(973) 574-1000

3. 3196 John Fitzgerald Kennedy Blvd
3rd Floor
Union City, NJ 07087
(201) 325-8444