Montclair Dentist Offers 5 Easy Tips For Kids’ Oral Health

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Montclair-based pediatric dentist Tyra Manso has simple advice for local kids and parents. Brush your teeth. Remember to floss. And make sure to choose healthy foods and drinks.

This simple advice can pay huge dividends in the long run, Manso advises.

Manso is the resident dentist at Montclair Pediatric Dental Care at 31 Valley Road in Montclair Center, which opened its doors earlier this month with an event that included Mayor Robert Jackson.

The mother and Montclair resident told Patch that she aims to combine her passion for science and art in her practice.

The office is equipped with “state-of-the-art technology and eco-friendly options” including allergen-free products and an in-office filtration system. This “soothing” office atmosphere helps put kids at ease, and comes with iPads, a Lego wall and the Growing Smiles Club to “reward patients with prizes for being committed to preventive dentistry.”

"We make kids part of the treatment process from the beginning, so they never have a chance to feel anxious," Manso said.

Top 5 Growing Smiles Club Tips

Manso offered five easy tips for keeping a healthy smile.

1. Dr. Manso’s Rules of 2: Brush your teeth two times a day for two minutes and visit your dentist two times a year.

2. Remember Flouride: Fluoride toothpaste is important for cavity prevention (Kiddos too young to rinse get a smear of fluoridated toothpaste).

3. Floss Daily: Flossing can be fun! Do it daily for healthy gums. Try the mini flossers!

4. Eat, Drink Healthy: Choose healthy snacks and drinks and balance “sometimes” foods (cupcakes) with “all the time” foods (apple slices).

5. Protect Your Smile: Sports related injuries are common in growing kids-custom fit mouth guards can be smile savers.

Photo: Montclair Pediatric Dental Care

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