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Family Dentistry

What is it?

Our practice treats both children and adults of all ages.  We take the time to understand your needs and concerns and will provide personalized treatment to help you achieve your goals.

It is important to us that you feel confident and well-informed about the care that your family is receiving at each phase of treatment.  Our staff will take the time to answer any and all questions you might have. When it comes to providing high-quality family dentistry, Dr. Merlino and her team have been a cornerstone of excellence in the Kiski and Delmont, PA communities for more than 20 years! We understand that our patients expect to be treated with kindness, compassion, and personalized care, and that’s what you can expect each time you visit our office.

Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Your child should brush as soon as the first tooth arrives. Parents should brush their children’s first teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. For children younger than two, do not use fluoride toothpaste unless advised to do so by your dentist or other healthcare professional. Ask our hygienists if your child should take a fluoride supplement. (Westmoreland County does NOT add fluoride to its water.)

Flossing is also a part of good oral hygiene and Dr. Merlino will discuss with you the appropriate time to start daily flossing. We recommend dental floss picks to help children learn how to properly floss their teeth.

Preventing Childhood Cavities

Cavities form when plaque, tartar, and food debris are not properly removed from your teeth. To help with your children’s cavity-fighting abilities, our team may suggest a fluoride treatment, which helps to strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent plaque and tartar. Dental sealants can be applied onto the surfaces of molars to prevent plaque and food particles from becoming stuck within the crevices. We recommend sealants for all children (and occasionally for adults too) to help protect teeth from the onset of decay.

No insurance? No problem! Check out our affordable, in-house dental plan here!

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