Visits to Our Family Dental Office
We welcome patients throughout the Middletown, NY, area to schedule an appointment with our family dentist office and call (845) 363-4177. Everyone should have their teeth cleaned and examined at least twice a year. If it has been more than six months since your child's last visit to the dentist, do not delay in scheduling an appointment. During these ongoing dental exams, Dr. Geri-Lynn Waldman, will make sure that your child's teeth are thoroughly cleaned. Along with a thorough cleaning, we will also look for any signs of cavities or gum disease. If any are found, they will be treated before they can spread and create additional problems. Early detection and treatment are important for reducing any pain that may come as a result of an infection. For example, if gum disease is caught early, it can be treated with a deep cleaning. If gum disease is left undiagnosed, surgery may eventually be required in order to correct it.
Understanding the importance of these regular dental exams, the staff at Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry, works to make each patient extremely comfortable. This includes being welcoming and kind, while performing dental treatments in a way that is both painless and relaxing. Patients throughout New York visit our dentist office because they trust us to do just that – take care of their teeth and gums, gently. While the majority of our patients are local and come from the Middletown area, we see patients throughout the state that are looking for expert, gentle dental care.
Age Groups
We mainly treat children and adolescents at Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry. We understand that children require a different approach when it comes to dental care. For example, we keep children patients comfortable during visits, so they remain relaxed and form a willingness to come back. With children, we go as slowly as necessary to ensure that their appointments are pleasant. Additionally, we focus on keeping their teeth healthy and free from cavities. We take preventative measures in the form of additional treatments to strengthen and protect a child's teeth. Dr. Geri-Lynn Waldman, knows that it is far easier to keep a child's teeth healthy and free from cavities, than to try and get them comfortable with a major dental treatment. If you have children, call 845-363-4177 to schedule an appointment and help them stay in good oral health as they grow.
Middletown Family Dentist FAQ
Q: Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
A: Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to come in.
Q: What should I do if my child has a toothache?
A: First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Next, give the child acetaminophen for any pain he or she might be feeling. Placing aspirin on the teeth or gums will not be as effective. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.
Q: How do dental sealants work?
A: Dental sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast, comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
Q: How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
A: Have your family dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then we may prescribe fluoride supplements.
Q: What can I do to protect my teeth during sporting events?
A: Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouth guard will protect your teeth from injuries and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
Q: How safe are dental X-rays?
A: There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Family dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which you and your family are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation. Digital X-rays provide an even greater level of protection by using up to 90 percent less radiation.