Teeth First! Teeth First!
TeethFirst!

Health Care Providers

How I Help Keep Precious Little Smiles Healthy: A Pediatrician’s Mission

Written by: Patricia Flanagan, M.D.

As a pediatrician, very little cheers me up more than a bubbly, giggly toddler grin.  It makes my day every time!

That precious little smile is so very important, too. Not only is it a sign of physical health, social-emotional and developmental well-being, but it’s also a sign of oral health and a reminder of the importance of early dental care. That’s why I make sure that I address caring for teeth during every well baby visit. 

Great Books for Young Brushers!

Reading to your child about teeth, brushing habits and visiting the dentist is a great way to help your child learn about having a healthy smile. Here are some of our favorite books that will help you inspire your child to take care of those little teeth.

Brush, Brush, Brush! by Alicia Padron (Ages 1 and up)

Making Rhode Island’s Children Healthier: Addressing Oral Health in Primary Care

Written by: Peter Pogacar, MD, FAAP

When I was a pediatric resident training to become a pediatrician, we received very little instruction regarding children's teeth and oral health in general. We spent the majority of our time in the hospital taking care of the very sick. Most of the oral health problems we encountered were due to the advanced treatments or medications the children were enduring. We were involved with specialists treating every organ system in the human body, but I don't remember even once consulting with the pediatric dentists.

For National Children's Dental Health Month, let's Reach Out and Read!

Written by: Susanna Beckwith, Executive Director

 
February celebrations usually bring to mind Valentine’s Day, President’s Day, even school vacation! But this February, celebrating meant something different for the board and staff of Reach Out and Read Rhode Island (RORRI). This February, we are celebrating National Children’s Dental Month. 
 

My Baby’s First Dental Visit: A Mom’s Story

Written by: Angie, Gabriella's Mom

Before my baby Gabriella got her first few teeth when she was seven months old, I took care of her gums by wiping them with a soft cloth after every feeding. Her first three teeth came in all at once­—it was a hard time for everyone! I brushed them with a special toothbrush and toothpaste made just for babies. I thought that was all the care her mouth would need until she was older and had more teeth.

Pages

TeethFirst! Creating healthy smiles for a lifetime.