
Feb
Dentistry takes on new meaning when you have children. What parent doesn’t want their child to have healthy teeth and a beautiful smile? If you wish to quality dental care for children, your best bet is to see a pediatric dentist. Dr. William Ossakow from Stone Ridge Family Dentistry is the go-to pediatric dentist for families living in or near Aldie, Virginia. We’ve compiled these FAQs to explain more about pediatric dentistry and how it can benefit you.
Pediatric dentistry focuses on the oral care needs of children from infancy through the teen years. In addition to diagnosing and treating dental problems, Dr. Ossakow has the role of educating children and their parents about the importance of oral care and helping children establish good oral care habits that will last well into their adult years.
General dentists treat people of all ages. Pediatric dentists specialize in meeting the dental needs of children and teens. Children have different oral care needs than adults, as their teeth and jaws are still developing. Pediatric dentists receive extra training to meet these needs. They also learn behavioral and communication skills that help them relate to their younger patients and provide them with positive dental experiences.
Children, like adults, should see their dentist, on average, twice a year for routine checkups and dental cleanings. Dr. Ossakow will inspect your children’s teeth and gums for signs of decay or abnormalities. When needed, we’ll take x-rays to check for hidden dental issues. Routine checkups reveal your children’s oral hygiene habits and the areas where they need to improve.
Baby teeth may not be permanent, but they are important to your child’s development. Primary teeth are essential for learning how to eat and speak. Each primary tooth takes up space for a permanent tooth to come in. If a primary tooth is lost early, adjacent teeth may shift to fill that space. This can displace permanent teeth or cause them to come in crooked. You also want to keep your children’s primary teeth and gums healthy to pave the way for healthy permanent teeth.
Ensure your children brush at least twice daily, using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your kids to floss before bed to remove food between teeth that brushing misses. Promote healthy eating at home and limit your children’s intake of sweets. Schedule routine checkups and cleanings and talk to Dr. Ossakow about preventive dental care services like fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help combat decay in children.
Look no further than Stone Ridge Family Dentistry. For all your pediatric dental care needs, contact Dr. William Ossakow at (703) 570-1356.
Dr. Mallory Grossman is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist known for her gentle and comprehensive approach to oral health. She graduated magna cum laude from Binghamton University in 2010 and earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2014. Following a comprehensive General Practice Residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Dr. Grossman developed expertise in minimally invasive, esthetic, and functional dentistry. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Northern Virginia Dental Society, and Virginia Dental Association and continually enhances her skills through ongoing education.
Dr. Kelly Lincoln is a trusted dentist who prioritizes patient-centered care for children and adults. She earned her biology degree from Boston College and her doctorate from the University of Maryland’s Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. Dedicated to continuous learning, she has completed advanced courses at the Pankey Institute. She is a member of the ADA, Academy of General Dentistry, Virginia Dental Association, Northern Virginia Dental Society, and Greater Loudoun Study Club. Honored as one of Loudoun County’s “40 Under 40,” she actively participates in community health initiatives like the Virginia Dental Association’s Mission of Mercy project.