At the office of Shuli Blobstein, DMD, PLLC, we focus on creating positive dental experiences that set children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Pediatric dentistry is about more than fillings and fluoride — it’s preventive guidance, growth monitoring, habit management, and a calm, kid-friendly approach that helps families feel confident about oral health decisions. Our team combines clinical expertise with warm communication so children feel safe and parents understand the “why” behind each recommendation.
The first dental visits are short, simple, and designed to build trust. We typically meet infants and toddlers in a gentle, playful setting where the goal is familiarization — introducing the child to the sights, sounds, and people of the dental office without pressure. During these early appointments, we perform a basic oral exam, check for healthy tooth eruption, and answer common questions about teething, cleaning, and pacifier or bottle use.
Parents often leave these visits with practical, age-appropriate strategies: how to clean an infant’s gums, when to introduce a child-sized toothbrush, and how to establish routines that make brushing a regular habit. Early interaction with the dental team also gives us a baseline for each child’s development so changes over time are easier to spot.
We prioritize clear communication with caregivers. Understanding normal growth patterns and knowing when to return for follow-up appointments reduces anxiety and helps families take proactive steps to prevent problems before they require more invasive care.
Regular checkups are a cornerstone of pediatric dental care. These visits allow us to monitor how the teeth, bite, and jaw are developing, assess oral hygiene, and detect early signs of decay or enamel wear. Professional cleanings remove plaque and polish teeth in a way that complements daily brushing and flossing at home, making those routines more effective over time.
During an exam we look beyond the teeth — evaluating the alignment of the bite, the condition of soft tissues, and habits that could influence growth. When appropriate, small, focused X-rays help us see beneath the surface to identify cavities or developmental concerns that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Any imaging we recommend is chosen with careful attention to safety and necessity for diagnosis.
We also take these visits as teaching moments, offering practical demonstrations and tips so children learn good techniques and parents understand how to support them. Clear, age-appropriate guidance on brushing frequency, flossing milestones, and choosing sensible snacks plays a big role in maintaining oral health between appointments.
Prevention is the most reliable way to reduce cavities and preserve healthy tooth structure. Topical fluoride applications strengthen enamel and help reverse early mineral loss, especially in young children whose teeth are still maturing. Sealants — thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars — create a physical barrier against decay in the pits and grooves where food tends to lodge.
These treatments are most effective when combined with consistent home care. We encourage brushing twice daily with an age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste and starting flossing once teeth contact each other. Making oral hygiene a predictable part of morning and bedtime routines, and framing it as an empowering habit rather than a chore, helps children adopt skills that stick.
Nutrition also factors strongly into prevention. Reducing frequent exposure to sugary drinks and sticky snacks, favoring water and whole foods, and timing treats intentionally all support enamel resilience. We provide families with straightforward, practical advice to make healthier choices easier and more sustainable.
Many small habits can influence dental development. Thumb-sucking, prolonged pacifier use, and certain swallowing patterns can affect tooth position and jaw growth if they persist past the ages when permanent teeth begin to emerge. We assess these behaviors during routine visits and offer strategies to help children stop habits in a gentle, supportive way.
When a baby tooth is lost prematurely — due to decay or injury — surrounding teeth can drift into the empty space and later interfere with permanent tooth eruption. In those situations, a space maintainer may be recommended to preserve room for the incoming tooth and reduce the need for future orthodontic treatment. Early recognition and timely intervention give the best chance of smooth transition from primary to permanent dentition.
If signs of crowding, malocclusion, or bite irregularities appear, we discuss options and timelines for orthodontic evaluation. Not every discrepancy requires immediate treatment; sometimes careful monitoring is the right approach. When early orthodontic care is indicated, coordinating with specialists ensures a comprehensive plan tailored to each child’s growth.
Children who play sports or enjoy active recreation benefit from effective protection. Custom-fitted mouthguards cushion impacts and significantly reduce the risk of tooth fractures, soft tissue injuries, and jaw trauma. While store-bought options exist, a professionally made mouthguard offers superior fit, comfort, and protection — which makes children more likely to wear it consistently.
Despite prevention, accidents happen. Knowing basic first-aid steps can preserve outcomes: rinse and gently reposition a knocked-out tooth when possible, control bleeding with clean gauze, and seek prompt dental care. For injuries to baby teeth, evaluation is important to protect underlying permanent tooth buds and the developing bite.
Our team is prepared to support families through dental emergencies with calm guidance and focused care. We prioritize timely assessment and treatment planning so children recover quickly and unnecessary complications are avoided. Education about protective gear, safe play, and when to seek dental attention complements clinical readiness.
Maintaining a child’s oral health is a team effort: knowledgeable clinicians, engaged parents, and motivated children working together. For personalized guidance or to learn more about our pediatric services in Hewlett and Boro Park, please contact us for more information.
