Pediatric Dentist Serving Newburgh, NY

This is one of the most common questions we receive from parents. While general dentists are qualified to care for teeth, pediatric dentists are the "pediatricians of dentistry." After completing dental school, pediatric dentists like Dr. Olstein and Dr. Rolon undertake an additional two to three years of rigorous residency training.

This specialized training focuses exclusively on the growth and development of children's mouths, from infancy through the teenage years. We study child psychology and behavior management techniques to help alleviate anxiety and make treatment comfortable.

Furthermore, we receive advanced training in treating children with special needs and managing dental trauma. This expertise allows us to identify and treat issues that are specific to developing smiles, ensuring that your child receives the most appropriate and effective care possible.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. We call this the "Age 1 First Visit." While it might seem early, this visit is crucial for establishing a "dental home" and preventing problems before they start.

During this initial visit, our primary goal is to help your child feel comfortable in the dental chair. We will perform a gentle "knee-to-knee" exam where you hold your child while we check their teeth, gums, and jaw. We will also discuss essential topics such as teething, proper brushing techniques, bottle and nursing habits, and diet. By starting visits early, we can track your child's dental development and help you implement a home care routine that keeps their smile healthy.

Dental emergencies can be frightening, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. Whether it is a knocked-out tooth, a chipped tooth from a fall, or a sudden toothache, Orange County Pediatric Dentistry is equipped to handle emergency situations. If your child experiences a dental emergency during normal office hours, please call us immediately and bring your child to our office; we will prioritize their care.

If an emergency occurs after hours, please call our main line at 845-928-2206. We have a system in place to page our dentist, who will return your call promptly to provide guidance. We are committed to helping you through dental emergencies 24 hours a day. In the event of a knocked-out permanent tooth, try to keep the tooth moist (in milk or saliva) and contact us immediately, as time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.

Yes, we understand that some children have high levels of dental anxiety or may need extensive treatment that is difficult to sit through. Our goal is to ensure every child receives necessary care without trauma or fear. We offer different levels of sedation dentistry depending on your child’s specific needs and medical history.

Our most common option is nitrous oxide, commonly known as "laughing gas." It is a safe, mild sedative that is inhaled through a small mask. It helps children relax quickly and wears off just as fast once the mask is removed, allowing them to return to school or normal activities immediately.

For young children with severe anxiety, extensive treatment needs, or special healthcare needs, we may recommend IV sedation. We will discuss all available options with you to determine the safest and most comfortable approach for your child.

It is a common misconception that baby (primary) teeth aren't important because they are eventually replaced. However, primary teeth play several vital roles in your child's overall development. First, they are essential for proper chewing and nutrition. Second, they are critical for speech development; healthy teeth allow children to form words correctly.

Perhaps most importantly, baby teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is lost too early due to decay or injury, the surrounding teeth may drift into the empty space. This can cause the permanent tooth to come in crooked or become impacted, leading to the need for extensive orthodontic treatment later in life.

Furthermore, untreated cavities in baby teeth can cause pain and serious infections that can spread to other parts of the body. Keeping baby teeth healthy is the first step toward a lifetime of oral health.