D.D.S.

Welcome to one of the harshest Februarys that we have ever had. But instead of talking about the weather, let's talk about Children's Dental Health Month. This month is special for me because I spend two different Fridays either treating kids at the U.B. Dental School or visiting classrooms in Batavia preaching good oral health habits.

 

Obviously, the most important habit a child can have is brushing well enough or for long enough. That's for all of us. Parents are the best "quality control" people for how well their kids are cleaning. In addition, parents of younger children should be helping them brush. A parent can clean more in 20 seconds than some children can clean in 20 minutes.

 

What a child (or adult) eats might not be as important as how it is eaten. We talk about constantly coating our teeth with sugary things and how harmful it can be to our teeth. Soda pop, sports drinks, fruit juice (especially in baby bottles), coffee with sugar can be the most harmful. "Nursing" these drinks or sipping them for long periods of time is when it hurts the most. I tell my patients that if they have to have a drink like those to "drink it right down" and be done with it. If one has to sip something, make it water--hot or cold. Water is so good for us anyway. Lollipops or any candy that stays in our mouth for long will cause cavities as well. Eat it and be done with it. Fruits and veggies are the most healthy snack substitutes.

 

Of course, the best "quality control" person for your child or for anyone is your dentist or hygienist. If your child has teeth then they should probably see a dentist. We urge parents of young children to bring their young kids with them at cleaning appointments if not just to get used to coming in but also for a quick usually cost free check up. Your dentist might feel the same.

 

So, kids (and adults!) eat carefully, clean well, and visit your dentist enough. Now, enjoy what's left of our Winter for Spring will come, eventually! Dr. Russell Marchese Jr. -- 585-343-2711. Like us on Facebook for more information.

Maybe you haven’t noticed, but dental insurance isn’t what it used to be. First of all, count your blessings if you have it at all, because fewer people have it now than 25 years ago. Secondly, insurance premiums have skyrocketed and dental benefits have not. And it is COMPLICATED!!! There are so many plans and each one is different. I can guarantee that the front desk people and office manager at your dental office are working hard to understand your plan and to maximize your benefits. What treatment does this plan cover? What’s not covered? What are my yearly maximums? My deductible or co‐pay? What are those and why do I have them? Does my dental office participate with this plan? Why does my plan say 100% covered and yet I still got a bill? It’s complicated. There is a link to our website and the answer to these questions and more if you are interested.