While drilling and filling remain the standard treatment for cavities in both adults and children, young children now have another choice for managing tooth decay. Many dental offices, including NOVA Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, now have access to a simple liquid treatment that can stop and prevent cavities in baby teeth. Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a new treatment that stops tooth decay in its tracks. And while it’s not a substitute for removing and filling cavities, it can keep decay at bay until baby teeth fall out. For many families, SDF is a faster and less expensive alternative to traditional treatment. In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of SDF, explaining … [Read more...]

We are extremely honored and humbled by your choice in voting Dr. Valerie Woo "Best Pediatric Dentist" in the Posh Seven Best of Suburbia poll. We love what we do! But it has and always will be about YOU! Without you, we wouldn't be able to continue doing what we love to do. Our sincerest thanks to all of our patients who voted. We appreciate all of you! View the 2017 results … [Read more...]

We are on a mission to create a healthy bite for your child and today we have more options than ever for making that happen. Traditional metal braces are a great fit for many patients, but new alternatives like ceramic braces and Invisalign® are giving traditional metal braces some serious competition. For many patients, the choice for straight teeth comes down to cost, appearance, and the level of maintenance needed to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. How Do Braces Work? Orthodontic treatment, whether it is done with braces or Invisalign®, is accomplished by putting pressure on the teeth to move them into a new position. In the case of traditional braces, brackets are bonded to the … [Read more...]

There’s nothing like the excitement of watching your child lose their first tooth; and it helps that most baby teeth come out on their own. But occasionally, baby teeth need a little help to move things along. When teeth are badly decayed or damaged, or when baby teeth start to crowd adult teeth coming in, it may be necessary to consider having your child’s teeth extracted. This isn’t as scary as it sounds. In most cases, a tooth extraction for your little one is a simple procedure, and needn’t cause any worry in you or your child. Why Do Children Need Tooth Extractions? Your dentist may recommend an extraction for your child for a number of reasons: The tooth is badly decayed … [Read more...]

There are many signs that your child may need orthodontic treatment. In addition to common indicators like misaligned or crowded teeth, speech problems and eating habits can also make your dental team aware of possible orthodontic issues, especially for younger kids. More than ever orthodontists are recommending early treatment to avoid more serious problems down the road. Here are some tips on how to spot potential indicators of the need for orthodontic treatment. What Are Early Signs That My Child May Need Orthodontic Treatment? According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) there is a range of signs that your child may need orthodontic attention. Problems related to … [Read more...]

Did you know that cavities in preschool-aged children are on the rise? Many dentists think sippy cups are to blame. Sippy cups and bottles can make a parent's life easier, but they aren't the best for a child's teeth. If your child drinks a liquid containing sugars from a sippy cup throughout the day, the sugars can cling to their teeth and cause tooth decay. Do Sippy Cups Cause Cavities? A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report comparing the dental health of Americans from 1988 to 1994 and 1999 to 2002 determined that while cavities decreased among older children, cavities in two- to five-year-olds increased 15.2 percent. Research suggests that increased sippy cup use … [Read more...]

While braces are usually the most talked-about part of orthodontic treatment, there’s a strong argument that retainers are just as important. Wearing a retainer is absolutely essential for keeping your child's teeth straight after braces. With several options available, retainers have become more comfortable than ever. They are also easy to clean and maintain. With a little encouragement, your child can make wearing their retainer a healthy habit. Why are Retainers Important? Once braces are removed, the teeth often want to return to their original positions within the mouth. Braces may have successfully moved your child’s teeth into place, but their bones, gums, and muscles need reminders … [Read more...]

From cleaning your child's gums as an infant to having him or her brush twice a day, it’s crucial to get your child into an effective oral health routine at a young age. Flossing, brushing, and even choosing the right toothpaste can be tricky when little fingers are in charge. Here are some tips for establishing great oral hygiene habits - and avoiding cavities - at any age. How Often Should My Children Brush Their Teeth? The general rule for children and adults is to brush twice a day, first thing in the morning and then again before bedtime. Many adults may not know that the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that we all brush our teeth for two minutes each time - including … [Read more...]

Sedation dentistry is a major aspect of adult dental care, but did you know it’s also available for kids? New medications have made sedation dentistry safer than ever for children. Alleviating anxiety with sedation dentistry offers many benefits – especially in children who fear the dentist or have trouble sitting still. And while it may not be needed for every child, in many cases sedation dentistry can safely help children get the dental care they need. What is Conscious Sedation? Conscious sedation dentistry involves the use of sedatives or nitrous oxide to put the patient in a relaxed state without losing consciousness. Unlike general anesthesia, the patient is awake during a procedure … [Read more...]

At NOVA Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, parents often ask us how to choose the best toothpaste for their child. Toothpaste is a big business, and there are dozens of options available. With marketing that appeals to kids and parents alike, it can be hard to decide. Not only do you need to scrutinize ingredients, but how do you know when to switch to an adult toothpaste? With a little knowledge before you enter the toothpaste aisle, you can rest-assured that you're picking the right toothpaste for your child. Choosing Toothpaste for Kids: What’s in Toothpaste? Most toothpaste contains mild abrasives to remove stains, fluoride, and antibacterial agents - along with thickening agents … [Read more...]