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Why You Should Avoid the Emergency Room for Dental Work

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist Valparaiso You want to save time and money, so you take your child to the emergency room for a dental problem. It’s a growing trend especially among parents, but you should generally avoid ...
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What’s in Your Child’s Mouth?

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso, IN Your child’s mouth contains hundreds of bacteria. Before your child reaches for the toothbrush and mouthwash, understand that not all bacteria are bad. Here’s what you need to know about ...
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The One Piece of Gear Every Athlete Needs

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Valparaiso Pediatric Dentist An injury to your mouth can be a painful, expensive experience. For athletes, mouth and tooth injuries pose a very real risk. Mouthguards are an excellent tool for protecting your mouth from ...
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One Simple Treatment Can Save Your Child’s Smile

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso, IN Our dentist might suggest dental sealants for your child during a visit to our office. Sealants are a way to protect your teeth against decay. With any dental treatment, it ...
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Keep Kids’ Teeth Safe and Healthy This Winter

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso, IN As a parent, you want to keep your child’s teeth safe and healthy all year long. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are great ways to prevent tooth decay. What ...
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How to Get Your Kids to Eat Healthier

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Dentist in Valparaiso The food children eat affects their long term oral health. Some foods have nutrients teeth need. Others are full of acids and sugars that are harmful to teeth. With so many unhealthy ...
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How Can I Keep My Kids Interested in Brushing Their Teeth?

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso, IN As a parent, you want to instill good habits into your children. One essential routine they must practice is twice-daily brushing. Sometimes it can be hard to keep your child ...
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Help Your Child Avoid Dental Fear

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Valparaiso Dentist The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should see a dentist at least once every six months. Depending on your child’s individual oral health needs, they may need to see the ...
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Healthy Transitions: Trading Bottles for Cups

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso, IN Helping your child switch from bottles to cups can be challenging. Babies may become emotionally attached to their bottles as a source of comfort as well as nutrition. However, bottles ...
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Gear Up – Protect Your Child’s Teeth

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso Losing a tooth can make simple tasks difficult. A missing tooth can impact the way you smile, eat, and talk. If your child plays sports, they are at a higher risk for ...
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A Parent’s Guide to Teething

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist Valparaiso Teething is a natural and necessary part of your child’s growth. However, knowing that doesn’t make it any easier to handle. If your baby has started teething, or if you are trying ...
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6 Facts You Didn’t Know About Your Toothbrush

December 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso, IN Do you ever think about your toothbrush? You use it twice a day, but how much do you know about it? We’ve compiled a list of interesting toothbrush facts. The ...
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5 Ways Medication May Be Affecting Your Child’s Oral Health

December 18, 2018

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso According to data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 20% of children take prescription medication regularly. There has been a steady, noticeable increase in the number ...
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Help Your Child Avoid Dental Fear

November 29, 2018

Pediatric Dentist Near Me The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children should see a dentist at least once every six months. Depending on your child’s individual oral health needs, they may need to ...
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Say Cheese!!

November 14, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Valparaiso Pediatric Dentist It has long been known that dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which is important for developing and maintaining strong teeth and bones. However, not all dairy works in the same ...
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What to Expect at Your Child’s Dental Appointment

October 24, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist Near Me The American Dental Association recommends all patients to schedule routine six-month check-up exams. This is particularly important for growing children. At your visit, we will screen your child’s mouth for tooth ...
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Can Teething Affect More Than My Child’s Mouth?

September 19, 2018 | Growing Smiles

It is a common belief that teething causes secondary symptoms such as a runny nose, irritability, high fever, or problems with sleeping. However, studies have shown that these types of concerns are caused by health issues unrelated to teething.
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How to Make your Child Comfortable While Visiting the Dentist

August 8, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Our patients love visiting our office. We make it a priority to make sure every child feels safe and comfortable when visiting us. We focus on keeping your children educated and happy with their oral health.
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Early Dental Care Could Save Your Child’s Life

July 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

The negative effects of poor oral hygiene are well documented, and can impact much more than your mouth. A lot of serious medical conditions can be caused or worsened by complications arising for poor oral health.
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Pacifiers and Teeth Development

June 7, 2018

One of the best ways to calm fussy babies is by giving them a pacifier. However, as babies grow this can be a difficult habit to break. The use of pacifiers can cause improper mouth development which leads to abnormal tooth growth and additional complications later in life.
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Common Questions from Parents

May 1, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Children’s Dentist Near Me These are some of the most common questions we hear from parents, and the answers we provide: When should I schedule my child’s first visit to the dentist? Our team recommends ...
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Make Your Child Smile at the Dentist

April 19, 2018 | Growing Smiles

It’s always important to have fun with our children. New experiences, new people and new surroundings can seem overwhelming to little ones. Read on for ways to make a trip to the dentist fun for ...
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3 Simple Ways to Reduce Tooth Decay

March 14, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist Near Me A happy smile is a healthy smile! There are a number of steps you can take to keep your smile healthy by reducing your risk of developing tooth decay. Here are ...
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3 Steps to a Healthy Smile

February 7, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Kids Dentist Valparaiso, IN Did you know that tooth decay is the single largest cause of school absences? The longer decay goes untreated, the worse it gets. Not only can this mean costlier expenses for ...
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Can Exercise Damage Your Teeth?

January 18, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Exercise is important to good health, but can it have a detrimental effect on our teeth? Studies have shown that exercise and fitness habits can result in an increase in dental decay and tooth erosion.
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Kids Dentist Valparaiso

January 11, 2018 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist Near Me Along with cooler weather and the end of year school break, winter brings the return of cold and flu season. When you are focused on a child with a fever, cough, ...
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6 Ways to Get Your Calcium

December 5, 2017 | Growing Smiles

Children’s Dentist Near Me Calcium is an important mineral for building strong, healthy teeth. Not everyone can tolerate the lactose found in dairy, which is often a prime source for calcium. There are a wide ...
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How Probiotics Improve Oral Health

November 8, 2017 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist Valparaiso Probiotics are typically advertised as being helpful for digestion. However, studies have shown that they can also improve oral health. Probiotics are beneficial for fighting infections that lead to oral disease. Reducing ...
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Hidden Risks in Your Child’s Hobby

October 11, 2017 | Growing Smiles

Does your child play a musical instrument? While participating in the school band, or learning an instrument at home can be a rewarding and enriching hobby, there can be underlying health risks. This ...
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Say Cheese!

September 7, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso It has long been known that dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which is important for developing and maintaining strong teeth and bones. However, not all dairy works in the ...
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Thank You!!

June 9, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Thank you for trusting me with your dental health care. You are a valuable part of my work and my life. I want you to know that my team and I appreciate your time, your trust, and your teamwork in your oral health care.
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The Importance of Oral Health Care While Pregnant

May 10, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Dentist Near MeAre you or a loved one currently pregnant or considering becoming pregnant? Congratulations! Since May is the month of Mother’s Day, we wanted to share some vital information.
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Do You Brush Your Teeth Too Much?

May 8, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Brushing your teeth is a vital step in maintaining good oral health. However, is there such a thing as over-brushing?
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Don’t Let Fear Ruin Your Healthy Smile

April 7, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Have you ever skipped or rescheduled a dental appointment due to fear or anxiety? Does the idea of having dental treatment fill you with dread? Do you worry about pain, embarrassment, or loss of control every time you sit down in a dental examination chair? You are not alone. And even better, we can help.
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Celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month With Us!

February 15, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Dentist ValparaisoFebruary is National Children’s Dental Health Month! Developing good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups can be the start of a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums for children.
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February is Heart Health Month

February 9, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that taking care of your teeth can impact heart health by reducing your chances of having a heart attack or a stroke by 50%? Contact our office for more information.
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Why Regular Dental Care Now Can Save You Big Later

January 14, 2016 | Growing Smiles

Proper at-home dental care and regular preventive dental visits can help you save money! See below for interesting information comparing the costs of dental care and see how the average person’s at-home care differs from ...
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Why We Take X-Rays

December 14, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that x-rays can help us detect bone loss and infections? Read below for more important information about x-rays. Please contact us to schedule your next dental visit.
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Thank You for Placing Your Trust In Us

December 4, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Thank you for being a patient at Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. We hope with each visit you have a positive experience. One of the highest compliments our practice can receive is a testimonial from you on ...
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Learn How Vitamins Can Prevent Tooth Decay From Our Valparaiso Dentist

November 11, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that Vitamin D is important in preventing tooth decay? Find out more below. Contact our Pediatric Dentist in Valparaiso IN for more information on how to keep your teeth healthy.
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We’re Digital!

November 6, 2015 | Growing Smiles

At Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of visiting our dental office at least twice per year to maintain and achieve optimal oral health. One of the main reasons we encourage you to see ...
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This Common Snack Food is Worse for Your Teeth Than Candy

October 21, 2015 | Growing Smiles

When we think of the foods most harmful to our teeth, we immediately think of candy. Cavities are caused by bacteria in your mouth that creates enamel attacking acids. This bacteria feeds on sugars that ...
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Scare Away Tooth Decay

October 19, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Halloween is just around the corner, and everyone, both kids and adults, are excited to indulge in sweet treats. Although Trick-or-Treating may be a fun activity, don’t forget to consider the impact it has on ...
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Four False “Facts” About Baby Teeth

September 23, 2015 | Growing Smiles

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about baby teeth. Primary teeth, also called milk teeth or baby teeth, are the temporary teeth that end up under pillows and provide plenty of business for ...
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10 Dental Facts from Our Valparaiso Pediatric Dentist

September 18, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that once a tooth gets knocked out, it starts to die within 15 minutes? If you put it in milk or hold it in your mouth, it will survive longer! Take a ...
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Healthy Lunch Ideas for Both Children and Adults

September 15, 2015 | Growing Smiles

September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. It is also a time when our schedules become busy with school, after-school activities, work and social gatherings. When short on time it can be tempting to buy convenient ...
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An Important Reminder from Our Northwest Indiana Dentist

August 10, 2015 | Growing Smiles

What’s on your checklist this month? As school starts, we’re reminded of all of the exciting change taking place in the lives of our children. It’s a busy time, filled with obligations. Your checklist seems ...
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Dental Facts to Sink Your Teeth Into

July 24, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that about 75% of the United States population suffers from some stage of periodontal gum disease? Take a look at some interesting dental facts that you can sink your teeth into. For ...
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Thorough Oral Exams Can Save Your Life

July 21, 2015 | Growing Smiles

At times, our patients schedule their appointments, not wanting x-rays taken or thorough oral screenings. They trust their regular dental cleanings will be adequate. However, it is important for you to know that complete oral ...
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Five Reasons to Floss like a Boss

June 22, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Are you worried your dental hygienist will ask if you floss, or worse, that they already know you don’t? Your teeth and gums don’t lie. Here are five reasons to change your ways and get ...
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Don’t Delay Dental Care

June 21, 2015 | Growing Smiles

With regular check-ups and cleanings, we can ensure healthy and happy smiles. It is recommended for all patients to schedule a routine six-month check-up exam. Our dentist will screen your child’s mouth for tooth decay ...
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The Truth Behind 5 Popular Dental Misconceptions

June 12, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Clearing up misconceptions about oral health can help improve personal oral hygiene efforts for a beautiful and healthier smile. If you keep up with your oral hygiene regimen, dental visits are significantly easier and dental ...
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3 Foods that Can Harm Your Child’s Teeth & 3 Easy Alternatives

June 11, 2015 | Growing Smiles

What your child eats affects their oral health. The best thing you can do as a parent is to encourage your children to make healthier food choices. Here are a few common snacks that can ...
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Northwest Indiana Pediatric Dentist Discusses Oral Health and Overall Health

May 21, 2015 | Growing Smiles

There is more to proper oral care than just having a beautiful and healthy smile. Researchers have found that there are over 100 medical conditions that can be detected in the early stages by a ...
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Chew on This: Foods for Healthy Teeth

May 18, 2015 | Growing Smiles

No time to brush or floss your teeth? When brushing or flossing isn’t convenient, you can still keep your mouth feeling fresh by eating certain foods. When you’re on the go or in a hurry, ...
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A Guide To Better Health

April 15, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that 40% of children have tooth decay by the time they are in kindergarten? Read about how to maintain and achieve a healthy smile. If you would like to schedule an appointment ...
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Interesting Facts About Teeth

April 7, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Here are some interesting facts about your amazing teeth: Enamel is the hardest substance in the body, according to Dr. Leslie Seldin, a spokeswoman for the American Dental Association. A quarter of all of the ...
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Dental Myths & Facts

March 25, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Did you know that you should replace your toothbrush after illness? Read more about dental myths, facts and oddities. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our Valparaiso pediatric dentist.
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Unexpected Ways to Use Toothpaste

March 20, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Toothpaste does a great job of cleaning teeth, but there are many other uses for toothpaste that you might not expect. The same ingredients that help polish our teeth can also soothe some common ailments, ...
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Why Your Smile Matters So Much…

February 25, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Studies show that more than 99% of adults say an attractive smile is an important personal asset. Our team emphasizes the importance of treating dental problems early. Read more about the surprising benefits for achieving ...
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Common Dental Problems and How to Fix Them

February 17, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Dental problems are never fun. Not being able to eat or speak properly can drastically decrease your overall confidence. If you are experiencing a dental problem, it is never too late to get it fixed. ...
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Since Baby Teeth Are Temporary, Are They Important?

February 7, 2015 | Growing Smiles

We often hear people downplay the importance of primary teeth (also called “baby” or “milk” teeth). The front 4 primary teeth generally last until 6-7 years of age, while the back teeth (cuspids and molars) ...
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Quick Facts About Toothbrushing

January 21, 2015 | Growing Smiles

According to the American Dental Association, you should brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and replace your toothbrush every three to four months. Ask our Valparaiso pediatric ...
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New Year’s Resolutions for Your Oral and Overall Health

January 14, 2015 | Growing Smiles

Welcome the new year with a renewed commitment to living healthy. Commit to a resolution that will keep your overall health in good shape as well as your oral health. Here are some dental health ...
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Little Teeth in America

December 22, 2014 | Growing Smiles

According to the AAPD, it is recommended to take your child for his or her first dental visit by the age of 1. Learn more about dentistry for children from our Valparaiso pediatric dentist.
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Symptoms and Preventions of Periodontal Disease

December 12, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss and is one of the most common health conditions in our population. It is caused by plaque and bacteria buildup that forms around the gum line, ...
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Four Ways to Say “Thank You” to Your Teeth!

December 3, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Your teeth are important! Not only are they the first stage in eating and digestion, but a healthy set of teeth will keep you looking your best. So perhaps it’s a idea good to say ...
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Nutrition & Oral Health

November 24, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Registered dietitians at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognize a link between mouth health and nutrition. Oral infectious diseases, as well as acute, chronic and terminal illnesses with oral symptoms can impact not only ...
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Thanksgiving and Oral Healthcare

November 17, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching! This day marks an event where everyone can feast and eat all the food that their tummies can handle. It is one of the few days of the year when people ...
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Should you worry about your child’s teeth grinding?

October 29, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Occasionally parents will reach out to us because they’ve been alarmed by the sounds their children make while sleeping. It’s not uncommon for children to grind their teeth, especially during sleep. In fact, some estimates ...
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History of the Toothbrush

October 16, 2014 | Growing Smiles

In 3500 BC, the Babylonians and Egyptians used chewing sticks to clean their teeth. Look how far the toothbrush has come! Learn more about the history of the toothbrush from your pediatric dentist in Valparaiso. ...
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Thanksgiving Coloring Contest

October 14, 2014 | Growing Smiles

We have 2 different coloring sheets based on your child’s age. Let us know if you have any questions. We look forward to all the awesome pictures! Happy Coloring! Coloring sheets for ...
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What to Do in Case of Dental Emergency

October 10, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Accidents always happen. Be sure to know what to do when one arises – it can be the difference of saving a tooth or losing one. A dental emergency is an injury to your teeth ...
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The Truth About Sports Drinks

October 7, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Kids and teens love sports drinks. In fact, studies have shown that these “thirst quenchers” are consumed by 62% of adolescents every day. But are they good for your child’s body or teeth? And are ...
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Being Prepared for Dental Emergencies

September 24, 2014 | Growing Smiles

When a dental emergency occurs, it is essential to get prompt treatment. Of course, the first (and best) step is to have an established dental home. Whether an injury happens on the playground, in school ...
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Costs of Skipping a Regular Check-Up With Your Valparaiso Pediatric Dentist

September 12, 2014 | Growing Smiles

A busy lifestyle can make time pass quickly. Before you realize it, your child will be due for another dental exam and cleaning. We recommend scheduling your child’s next appointment prior to leaving our pediatric dental ...
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Tips to Encourage Kids to Brush

August 27, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Use music or video to keep kids brushing longer. One of the biggest challenges to adequate brushing is getting kids to brush their teeth for a full two minutes. The 2Min2X website is a great ...
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Thank you!

August 10, 2014 | Growing Smiles

Thank you to all the families, patients, and friends for making our opening week so great! It was an exciting week and we enjoyed meeting all the new families that visited our office. We look forward ...
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