How to Find a Kid Friendly Dentist

Is your child afraid to go to the dentist?

Does your child get squeamish in the dentist’s chair?

Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a scary experience!

A dentist’s job is to help find the boo boos in your child’s mouth you didn’t know were there … to prevent further injury. Finding the right dentist for your child makes the transition easier IF they practice being kid friendly.

The family dentists in Howell, Michigan at Dr. Gary DiStefano, D.D.S. & Associates are friendly, caring, and ready to help your child get over their fears.

Ensuring that the dentist’s office is kid friendly just requires a few questions that you may want to ask yourself:

1.      Are the instruments appropriate for your child's mouth?

2.      Is the office staff friendly and accessible?

3.      Is the dentist friendly and accessible?

4.      Do the dentist and staff explain to your child what to expect?

5.      Is the atmosphere friendly and positive?

6.      How does your dentist respond to a scared or crying child?

7.      Are you able to meet the dentist with your child beforehand, so your child knows what to expect?

Our ultimate goal is to help you improve you and your family’s dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best family dentists in Howell Michigan. Call Doctor Gary DiStefano, D.D.S., your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan today to schedule your 6-month appointment! 517-546-8983

Learn to Teach Your Child to Care For Their Teeth

Does your child brush his or her teeth every day?

Is your child using the best technique when brushing?

Good dental hygiene starts at home with the parents! Teaching your child how to brush effectively is crucial to prevent future decay.

Many parents just like you find it a challenge to get their child motivated about brushing, especially late in the day. We’re here to tell you that you’re not alone!

If you’re unsure about the best way to teach your child about brushing their teeth, feel free to stop by your favorite family dentist in Howell, Michigan. We can show you the best techniques! In addition, there are a few guidelines that the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends, including:

1. Clean your baby’s mouth during the first few days after birth by wiping the gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth.
2. For children younger than three years, caregivers should begin brushing children’s teeth as soon as they begin to come in by using fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice. Brush teeth thoroughly twice per day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist or physician. Supervise children’s brushing to ensure that they use of the appropriate amount of toothpaste.
3. For children three to six years of age, caregivers should dispense no more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Brush teeth thoroughly twice per day (morning and night) or as directed by a dentist or physician. Supervise children’s brushing to minimize swallowing of toothpaste.
4. Until you’re comfortable that your child can brush on his or her own, continue to brush your child's teeth twice a day with a child-size toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. When your child has two teeth that touch, you should begin flossing their teeth daily. 

Teaching your kids how to care for their teeth early on can save you time, energy, and money. Don’t break the bank! Start teaching your child best practices for a healthy lifestyle today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know that my child can handle brushing on his or her own?

You’ll know when the time is right, because you’ll be getting good reports back from your child’s dentist.

Is caring for a newborn’s gums necessary?

Yes. It is necessary that you care for your newborn’s gums because it will prevent bacteria from building up and damaging your child’s teeth when they are ready to grow in. 

How do I know my child is ready for the dentist?

The recommended time that it’s necessary for your child to visit the dentist is when they are either 1 year old or when their first tooth arrives. Which ever comes first!

Our ultimate goal is to help you and your family improve your dental health through care and education. We’re also dedicated to maintaining a higher level of service to our patients so we can remain the best Howell family dentist. Call Doctor DiStefano, your favorite Howell family dentist to schedule your 6-month appointment today! 517-546-8983

A Whiter, Brighter Smile With Dr. DiStefano, Howell Family Dentist!

Whiten Your Smile While You Sleep!   It’s Easy With Dr. DiStefano, Your Howell Family Dentist!

Have you looked in the mirror and noticed that your smile isn’t quite as bright as it used to be? 

Do your teeth look discolored or just darker than you remember? 

Have you considered teeth whitening, but have heard that the bleach tastes gross, and may even hurt your teeth after a few minutes? 

Our number one priority is your oral health.  However, we also want to help you feel good about your smile.  Your teeth have probably become discolored due to diet, tobacco use, or even your age!   It happens to most of us, and you shouldn’t feel bad because there’s something you can do about it!  We’re here to help you get your bright smile back! 

We offer two different teeth whitening systems: Sheer White Professional Grade Whitening Strips and Opalescence Professional Whitening Trays.  Both Sheer White, and Opalescence have a higher level of bleach than what you’d find in at-home whitening systems.  Plus, Dr. DiStefano and his staff are available to answer your questions and support you on your journey to whiter, brighter teeth! 

Visit our website to learn which teeth whitening system is right for you! 

It could take less than ten days to get that smile you’ve always wanted!

A Howell Family Dentist Explains how Proper Oral Care can Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease, Cancer and Stroke!

Did you know that more studies are linking periodontal disease to serious, sometimes fatal diseases like heart disease, stroke and certain cancers?  

A few more scary facts:

• Periodontal disease affects up to 75% of the world's population! 
• Gum inflammation and bone loss is not always painful.  Which is a problem, since many of us don't seek care from a dentist or doctor until we feel pain!  
• Research indicates that even with proper oral care, 30% of the population is still at risk for periodontal disease.

Brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist regularly just became much more important!  

Know that facts and work with us to keep your mouth healthy and lower your risk of a serious disease. 


It's imperative that you take a few minutes to read more about this!  
http://howelldentistoffice.com/familydentist/howell/disease-prevention

Call us to schedule your 6 month check up today! 517-546-8983