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Dr. Naomi’s Comprehensive Approach to Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Naomi is passionate about pediatric dentistry.  She focuses not only on the health of the oral tissues and structures but on the development of children's oral function and jaw development.  She believes that proper facial growth, proper chewing, healthy breathing patterns, and restorative sleep are crucial for optimal early childhood development. Early intervention and a thorough understanding of the child's developmental needs form the core of Dr. Hillel's philosophy.  Her goal is to ensure that every child receives care that supports optimal health and development.

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Your 1st Visit

The first visit with Dr. Hillel is a step in the direction of understanding what elements are crucial for your child’s oral health as well as for optimal facial and airway growth. It is a comprehensive session where your child's oral function, breathing and sleep patterns, and overall health are meticulously assessed. This visit lays the foundation for a personalized care plan, focusing on your child's long-term well-being.

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Why Primary (Baby)
Teeth Are Important

Primary teeth (sometimes called baby teeth) are crucial for your child's development. They enable efficient chewing which leads to healthy absorption of essential nutrients.  They also provide structural support for your child’s growing face and developing airway. Taking proper care of primary teeth is vital for your child's comfort and overall health. Prompt treatment of cavities is essential to prevent further decay and ensure a healthy mouth and body.

Prevention

Healthy Habits for Bright Smiles

Encouraging good oral hygiene and healthy eating is essential for your child’s dental health. A balanced diet (with minimal sugary drinks and snacks) is the key to preventing tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups, starting from the first birthday, are important for early detection and prevention of dental issues. Simple habits like brushing teeth twice a day and using protective dental treatments like sealants can make a significant difference in your child's oral health. Interestingly, chewing hard vegetables such as raw carrots, celery, radishes or jicama are great sources of fiber that not only help clean the teeth but also are great jaw exercises that help promote good jaw growth.

Pulp Therapy

Pulp therapy is vital for maintaining the function of a tooth after it has been significantly damaged by decay or injury. It involves treating the tooth’s pulp (nerve chamber) to prevent its loss, using techniques like pulpotomies or pulpectomies. These treatments help preserve the tooth and ensure its health and functionality.

Sealants

Sealants are protective coatings applied to the back teeth’s chewing surfaces. They act as barriers against food, plaque and acid, significantly reducing the risk of cavities in these vulnerable areas.

X-Rays (Dental Radiographs)

Dental radiographs are a critical part of pediatric dental care. They help in detecting conditions beyond cavities, like bone diseases or injuries. Regular X-rays, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, are essential for comprehensive dental care. Modern safeguards ensure minimal radiation exposure, making them a safe and crucial diagnostic tool.

Tips For Parents

Proper tooth brushing with ADA-approved toothpaste is essential for children’s dental health. Supervised brushing and the correct amount of toothpaste ensure effective cleaning. Transitioning from bottles to cups, avoiding prolonged use of sippy cups and pacifiers, and proper tongue posture are also important for a child’s dental and facial development.

Orthodontic Treatments

ALF / Early Expansion

Numerous appliances can be used to effect expansion. One such appliance is the Advanced Light Force (ALF) appliance and is used frequently at Growing Faces. It guides the development of the jaws and airway, promoting optimal growth through gentle expansion and allowing the palate to be open and not occupied by plastic.  Jaw expansion often enhances  breathing, speech, and sleep patterns and thus positively influences behavior. These positive effects occur because as the jaw expands, the nasal passages widen and more space is created for the tongue to rest in.  Breathing becomes optimized when the tongue can rest comfortably in the palate and the child can close their lips and nasal breathe. In  instances where ALF is not appropriate for a particular patient,  other expansion appliances are utilized to modify the jaws.Typically a posture breathing therapy program is utilized during the period of expansion  so that the tongue may learn to occupy the newly widened space.

Clear Aligners

Ideal for teenagers and adults, Clear Aligners offer a subtle yet effective method for enhancing dental alignment and arch development. These aligners are meticulously designed to not only correct minor to moderate misalignments.  When used properly, they can also protect and/or enhance the natural structure of the airway. Their almost invisible appearance makes them a popular choice for those seeking aesthetic and functional dental improvements.

Braces

Traditional braces are a comprehensive solution for addressing complex orthodontic challenges, including severe misalignments and bite issues. Beyond straightening teeth, they can play a crucial role in arch development and maintaining the integrity of the airway. Suitable for patients of all ages, braces provide a powerful, versatile approach to achieving both a beautiful smile and enhanced airway function.

Breathing, Behavior, Speech, and Sleep: ALF Appliance Patient Experiences

Dental Emergencies

In case of dental emergencies like toothaches, injuries to the mouth, or knocked-out teeth, prompt and appropriate action is crucial. 

Toothaches

  • Clean the area around the affected tooth.
  • Rinse the mouth with warm water or use floss to remove trapped food.
  • If pain persists, contact your child's dentist immediately.
  • Avoid using aspirin or heat on the affected area.
  • For swelling, apply cold compresses and seek immediate dental care.

Knocked Out Permanent Tooth

  • Locate the tooth and handle it by the crown, not the root.
  • Rinse it with water (no soap or scrubbing).
  • Try to reinsert the tooth; if unable, keep it in saliva or milk.
  • See a dentist immediately as timing is crucial.

Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip, or Cheek

  • Apply ice to reduce swelling.
  • Use gentle pressure with gauze to control bleeding.
  • If bleeding doesn't stop, seek medical attention urgently.

Chipped or Fractured Permanent Tooth

  • Contact a pediatric dentist right away.
  • Rinse the mouth and use cold compresses to reduce swelling.
  • Save any tooth fragments for the dentist.

Severe Blow to the Head or Possible Broken Jaw

  • Avoid moving the jaw if a fracture is suspected.
  • Proceed immediately to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Knocked Out Baby Tooth

  • Inform your pediatric dentist during regular hours.
  • Typically, this situation is not an emergency and may not require immediate treatment.

Chipped or Fractured Baby Tooth

  • Reach out to your pediatric dentist for advice.
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