The season of giving is upon us. And what kid doesn’t like to bask in the warmth of the holiday spirit? Whether you have youngsters just coming of age and beginning to understand the gift of giving, or teens well-acclimated to the joy of caring for another, there is nothing like December to remind everyone in your family of how incredible helping others – and helping oneself can be. Read more

Has Your Infant Turned Into A Biting, Drooling, Screaming Machine?

At about six or seven months of age, the baby of your dreams, the one who makes you smile and go all goo-goo-ga-ga, is going likely to do a full 180 on you and turn into a biting, drooling, screaming machine … or, at least, a crying/whining one. The most frequent reason for this change in behavior is quite often, you guessed it – teething. So, for those parents who haven’t yet gone through this uncomfortable growth stage, let’s walk you through three of the most common symptoms you’re likely to deal with when the tooth monster finally appears. Read more

Proactive Planing and Scaling Can Prevent Advanced Gum Disease

Contrary to popular belief, gum disease does not discriminate based on age. Both adults and children can find themselves battling bleeding gums and gum recession – both signs of gingivitis, and the more serious advancement of the disease, early onset periodontitis. To prevent this bacterial infection which can eventually cause tooth and bone loss, your child’s dentist may recommend a proactive approach that includes a more thorough type of cleaning known as root planing and scaling. Read more

Your Teen’s Retainer. Why Wear It, And How To Care For It!

If it were possible to bottle up the pure joy of teen experiences after years of orthodontic treatment, it could probably be used to bring peace to the world. There is nothing quite like that feeling of un-tethering oneself from the bonds of metal and plastic, and sensitive teeth that can hardly stand the tippy-tippy touch of a finger after a tightening. The sense of freedom is truly marvelous. However. As soon as the chains of braces are broken, there’s another nemesis to contend with – the dreaded retainer. And, getting your teen to follow the rules in wearing and taking care of one can be a challenge. Here’s the fuel you need to keep them on track. Read more