28 Jul.2020

Monsoon Season and Dentistry: 3 Similarities

Monsoon Season in Tucson

Who doesn’t love monsoon season? For us Tucsonans, it may be one of the best times of the year. Monsoon season starts in mid-June and runs through September. It is a time that brings a lot of heat, dust storms, and usually, heavy rain.

We love monsoon season at Great Grins Children’s Dentistry. So, we came up with a fun list of 3 things that this time of the year and dentistry have in common. Check it out below!

1: They both require water

Did you know that we use lots of water to clean your teeth? Just like you do at home! Water is required to get those teeth nice and shiny. Monsoons are different every year, but they usually come with water too. This is one of our favorite parts of the season, especially on rainy days when the sun is still shining bright at the same time.

2: Beneficial

Monsoon rains can help in dry lands where water is necessary. Some people even reclaim rainwater to use for other purposes. Of course, we all know dentistry is also beneficial! Dentists keep our teeth nice and healthy, or they can fix them when they are causing us pain. Visit your Tucson dentist to learn more about why it is so important to get regular cleanings.

3: Both Can Bring Pleasant Smells

That’s right! Many people love the smell that monsoon rains leave behind. However, nobody likes stinky breath, and that’s where dentistry comes in handy. If you brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily, you can avoid stinky breath! When you go to the dentist, the different flavors of toothpaste or varnish will also keep your breath (and teeth) fresh.

So, what are your favorite parts of monsoon season? How about dentistry? Naturally, we love both! Great Grins Children’s Dentistry is located in central Tucson, AZ where we enjoy hot summers but also monsoon rains. We love our local community! If you’re looking for a kid’s dentist in Tucson, please contact us at (520)325-4746 to schedule your child’s next appointment.

24 Jun.2020

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Going to the Dentist During COVID-19: What’s Different?

Going to the dentist during COVID-19 will be very different from what we are used to. More importantly, at Great Grins Children’s Dentistry, our biggest concern is the safety of our patients and team. Because of this, we have dedicated time and effort to ensure that we have all of the necessary precautions in place to see patients. The situation is constantly changing. As of now, here are some of the guidelines that we are following:

Upholding high sterilization standards, as always
Using UV sanitizers to help clean more effectively
We are asking everybody to wear a mask and wash hands upon entry where we will check temperatures
Parents will fill out a COVID-19 questionnaire before visits
Our office is very large so we can practice social distancing easily
We have sanitizers throughout the office
One-way traffic for patients/parents to come in and leave through different exits
Paperless forms that can be completed on tablet that will be cleaned after every use
Daily temperature checks and health history reviews for our employees
Our uniforms have always been laundered on-site, which is now required
All employees will wear the necessary protective gear

Great Grins: Going to the Dentist During COVID-19

We are following these guidelines and other recommendations (from the ADA and other organizations) closely. This way, we can still see patients at Great Grins Children’s Dentistry. We will make necessary changes as the situation develops. Please call us if you have any questions.

Your child’s dental visit will look different, especially to little ones. Before the visit, try to talk to your child about possible changes. Explain that the dental team may look different, but it is for their protection. It can still be a fun trip to the dentist!

If your child is having a true dental emergency, contact Great Grins Children’s Dentistry at (520)325-4746. Please remember to stay safe and stay home if you are sick. We are in this together. We look forward to seeing you soon.

8 Jun.2020

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3 Ways to Relax: Ideas for Kids and Adults

3 Ways to Relax – Ideas for Kids and Adults!

We gathered a list of simple ways to relax for anybody who needs it. Many things are changing and change can come with stress for both kids and adults. At Great Grins Children’s Dentistry, we want you to SMILE even through tough events. For that reason, we decided to put together a small list of ideas to help you and your little ones unwind.

Move Around

Exercising is a great way to get your mind off of things for a little while. Don’t worry – you don’t have to run if that’s not your thing! Try going for a walk, or even playing with your pet. Tucson can get pretty hot, so you can try working out inside. If you have the space, jump roping is a great idea. Kids can play hide and seek or try exercises like jumping jacks.

Hit the Books

Still haven’t opened that book you’ve been meaning to read? Now is the perfect time! As for the little ones, check out our book ideas here. We’re a kid’s dentistry so, naturally, our favorite books talk about teeth! If you are feeling too distracted to read, try keeping a journal instead. This way, you can write down your thoughts and transfer some of those distractions to paper.

Listen to Music

Sometimes we forget how relaxing it can be to just lay down and listen to music. Take some time to listen to your favorite songs and disconnect for a bit.

We know that uncertainty can come with a lot of different emotions. That is why we want to make your experience in our office as stress-free as possible. Remember that Great Grins Children’s Dentistry is open and we are taking precautions for the safety of our team and patients. We are closely monitoring any changes or recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA). Please call (520)325-4746 with any questions.

27 Apr.2020

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Stay at Home: 3 Fun Activities for Kids

Stay At Home Orders

With stay at home orders being implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, many families are finding time to do things they have not done in a while. If you have children at home, you know that they need different activities to stay entertained, especially at home. Here are 3 stay-at-home ideas that are sure to keep your little ones busy!

Make a Thank You Sign

What better time to show our appreciation for essential workers? Create a “thank you” sign using things you already have at home! You can use cardboard, poster board, regular paper, or even an old frame. Get your paint or markers, and make a sign to thank all those that are working hard to keep the world going during COVID-19. You can place your message outside, such as on a window or using stakes in your front yard. If that is not possible, you can also share a picture on social media to spread some cheer!

Turn Your Sidewalk into a Masterpiece

If you have chalk handy, head outside to your yard and draw on the sidewalk! This can be done in the front yard or back yard, just remember to maintain social distancing if other people are around. Try to do this activity when there is nobody outside, maybe in the middle of the day if possible. Many of your neighbors may be going for walks to stay active during the Coronavirus pandemic. You can draw/write inspiring messages and pictures for them to see!

Make a Music Video

This might be the easiest idea on the list. All you really need is your imagination and some courage! Simply choreograph a dance to your favorite song. This can be done with siblings, parents, or anybody that is already staying indoors with you. If you have a phone with a camera, record your dance moves and share on social media. If not, do this just for fun! These types of videos have spread a lot of joy throughout the world in recent days, and we could all use a little more.

Remember to Stay Safe

Great Grins Children’s Dentistry would like to remind you to stay safe and stay at home if you are able to. We would also like to thank those who are on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for your hard work and strength during these trying times.

6 Feb.2020

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Dental Health Month – Pediatric Dentists in Tucson

Dental Health Month on a Leap Year

Happy dental health month from Great Grins Children’s Dentistry! Did you know that every February, we celebrate a whole month of dental health education? Well, this year is a little bit different. Because 2020 is a leap year, we get an extra day this month to celebrate clean and healthy teeth.

Pediatric Dentists in Tucson

At Great Grins Children’s Dentistry, Dr. Wolfman and Dr. Lele share their knowledge and love of pediatric dentistry with our patients ALL YEAR LONG. So, with February being dental health month, it is one of our favorite times of the year. It makes us happy to know that dental professionals around the country celebrate this month together! Our pediatric dentists work hard in our Tucson community to keep kids’ teeth happy and healthy. The following are some of the qualities that make our team extra special:

• Sports-themed office with arcade games (that parents love too!)
• Separate area for teen patients
• 3 SUPER CUTE mascots, Jax, Andi, and Milo
• 2 dentists who are Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Schedule an Appointment

If your little one has not seen a dentist, then now’s a great time to start! Our team is happy to answer any questions you may have. We will also help attain records from a previous dentist if your child is a new patient with us. If your child is already a patient, then make sure they have their next appointment scheduled. We can usually schedule visits months in advance!

Great Grins Children’s Dentistry is located in central Tucson, near the Jewish Community Center. Another benefit is that we are contracted with most insurances. Because of this, our patients get the most out of their dental benefits! Please call (520)325-4746 with any questions, and lastly, happy dental health month again from the Great Grins team!

8 Jan.2020

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New Year, New Brushing Habits For Children!

It’s a new year, and the perfect time to start new brushing habits with your little one! Our dentists at Great Grins Children’s Dentistry in Tucson would like to remind you of some super simple but important practices. If you want better brushing habits for your child, check out the recommendations below.

Two Times a Day

We know that time flies and families get busy; we can’t believe it’s already a new year at Great Grins! However, it is SUPER important to brush your teeth. It is even more important, perhaps, for children to brush properly in order to get those good habits started early! You should brush at least two times a day, once in the morning and once at night. Your pediatric dentist may also mention that brushing at night is particularly important because those stubborn mouth monsters should not rest there while we sleep! Therefore, brush those teeth in the morning and then again before bedtime. It can be more fun to do it as a family.

Two Minutes

Remember: two minutes, two times. The American Dental Association recommends brushing for two minutes each time. That’s only a total of 4 minutes out of the 1,440 minutes that we have in a day!

Circles

In order to brush effectively, a toothbrush should be used in circular motions. An electric toothbrush can also help with this. If you have any questions regarding brushing, please ask your child’s pediatric dentist.

New Year, New Dental Coverage!

At Great Grins Children’s Dentistry in Tucson, our team is happy to check your insurance benefits. Many plans renew in the new year. For this reason, it is good to check with us if you have any questions so that you can get the most out of your plan! Call (520)325-4746 to schedule your child’s appointment with the best dentist in Tucson today.

24 Oct.2018

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Food Drive in Tucson: Great Grins Children’s Dentistry

Food Drive

Great Grins Children’s Dentistry is hosting a food drive through the month of November 2018! The food will be donated to the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. We will collect non-perishable goods at our office during business hours from November 1st – November 30th. Please click here to view our calendar, since we have limited hours on some Mondays and Fridays. You can also call ahead of time at (520)325-4746 for more information.

Donation Guidelines

– Please do not bring rusted, dented, or leaking containers.

-No glass. Plastic, cardboard, and cans are best.

-All goods must have a product name. The food bank cannot accept home-made items.

-Try to donate nutritious foods, such as canned chicken, beans, and veggies.

Most Needed Items

All non-perishable food is appreciated and accepted. Additionally, here is a list of the most needed items by the Community Food Bank. If you have any questions regarding regulations, please call the food bank at (520)622-0525.

-Peanut butter

-Canned soups, fruits, and vegetables

-Canned tuna and chicken

-Oatmeal, cereal, and granola bars

-Rice and pasta

-Shelf-stable milk

Donate to Win!

Donate for your chance to win 4 tickets to this year’s Arizona Bowl! The Arizona Bowl is a football game between two eligible college teams and will take place on Friday, December 29th in Tucson. First, bring in a non-perishable item during the month of November. Our team members will help you enter the raffle! As always, Great Grins is happy to support local organizations and events.

Give Back

In order to make this food drive a success, we need your help! If you are not able to donate food, you can still participate by sharing the word on social media. Furthermore, let people know we are hosting a food drive if they are looking for ways to give back! We are happy to collect items from the Tucson community, even if they are not patients. Remember that we will be collecting goods at our office on 3953 E Paradise Falls Dr through the month of November. Most importantly, thank you for participating and we hope to see you soon!

19 Jul.2018

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Prepare for a Dental Visit: 3 Helpful Tips for a Better Experience

Wondering how to prepare for a dental visit? Going to the dentist can be overwhelming for adults, and even more so for our little ones. Although dentists are there to help, the thought of seeing one can sometimes cause anxiety. For this reason, our pediatric dentists in Tucson, AZ work extra hard on making every experience a positive one. Follow these helpful tips below to comfort your child before they make a visit.

1. Watch Positive Videos

One way to prepare for a dental visit is to watch educational videos. Begin by finding short clips that will keep your little one engaged. Be sure to check them out first and ensure that they show positive experiences. Then, listen to the words that are used, how the patient reacts, and the environment. Our office in Tucson is sports-themed and filled with fun stuff for kids. As a result, our patients have the most comfortable visits possible!

2. Read Fun Books!

Another way to comfort your child is to read dental books. There are many options when it comes to books about cleaning teeth. A couple of our favorites are:

The Tooth Book by Dr. Seuss

Brush Your Teeth Please by Leslie McGuire

Choose colorful and short reads, like these rhyme or pop-up books!

3. Role Play

Finally, after watching videos and reading books about happy visits to the dentist, try role playing with your child. You can pretend to be the dentist, or even let your little one do the work first! Most importantly, have your child lay back and practice opening their mouth while you take a look. This is an excellent way to avoid surprises when they have a real visit to the dentist, and they might even look forward to it!

Prepare for a Dental Visit at Great Grins

Give us a call at (520)325-4746 to visit the BEST pediatric dentists in town! Dr. Wolfman and Dr. Lele specialize in dental care for infants, children, and teens. Let us help your child sport a winning smile!

16 Mar.2017

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Nitrous Oxide/Dental Laughing Gas

Nitrous Oxide Benefits

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, is a safe sedative that helps you relax. At Great Grin’s Children’s Dentistry, this is one of the most common types of oral sedation we provide.

Should My Child Receive Laughing Gas?

Many children feel anxious in unfamiliar places and feel scared at the dentist. Our goal is to help even the most anxious child feel at ease during the appointment. We encourage you to talk with your child about their upcoming visit to our office. Try to prepare them for the services they’ll receive. If they still show extreme nervousness and anxiety, dental nitrous oxide may be helpful for them. For some cases and children with special needs, we also offer office- and hospital-based anesthesia.

How Nitrous Oxide Works

Here is more information on how laughing gas works. At the beginning of the appointment, we will place a small nose piece over your child’s nose. As they breathe normally, the gas will take effect, making your child feel more relaxed. Experiencing a light-headed feeling or a tingling in the arms and legs is normal. It will not put your child to sleep. Your child will be conscious and be able to respond to any directions we may give throughout the appointment. Our doctors then administer oxygen through the nose piece when the treatment is done. This allows the effects of nitrous oxide to wear off right away.

Nitrous Oxide in Tucson Office

Throughout the years, we’ve found that children respond well to laughing gas. It can make your child feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. Our goal is to ensure every child receives dental treatment comfortably and safely. Laughing gas is easy to administer, and children love the feeling of comfort it provides. Still have questions about laughing gas and your child’s appointment? Contact our office today at (520)325-4746 for more information!

24 Feb.2017

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Tooth Extractions for Children

Extractions

Does My Child Need a Tooth Extraction?

At times, extractions may be needed. Tooth decay left untreated can cause more damage. This can cause even the toughest all-stars to need a tooth removed. At Great Grin’s Children’s Dentistry, we perform extractions from the comfort of our office.

Tooth Extractions and Your Child

Our goal is to ensure that during the extraction, your child is as comfortable as possible. Before we get started, we will give your child an anesthetic to numb the area and reduce discomfort. We help your child understand that after this point, they won’t feel a thing! However, you will want to talk to your child about being careful not to bite the cheek, lip, or tongue afterward. We recommend that your child not eat any foods that require chewing for a few hours after until they regain feeling in the mouth.

Recovery Time

We strive to make your child’s appointment and recovery as comfortable as possible. After surgery, we place a gel foam in the extraction site. This helps to stop any bleeding. The gel foam goes away on its own and is okay to be swallowed if it comes out. For the first day or two after tooth extractions, stick to calm activities. Do not drink through a straw or brush near the extraction site. Ice packs and pain medication can help with any swelling.

In addition, stress the importance of keeping the mouth clean after tooth extractions with your child. Your child should still brush and floss the teeth around the healing tooth. To clean the extraction site, help your child rinse gently with a glass of warm salt water after meals. Be sure your child doesn’t rinse too vigorously.

Pediatric Dentist in Tucson

Drs. Kedar Lele and Angela Wolfman are diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. They specialize in dental care for infants, children, and teens. For more information on tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment, contact us today!

childrens dentist

Monsoon Season in Tucson

1: They both require water

2: Beneficial

3: Both Can Bring Pleasant Smells

Great Grins: Going to the Dentist During COVID-19

3 Ways to Relax – Ideas for Kids and Adults!

Move Around

Hit the Books

Listen to Music

Stay At Home Orders

Make a Thank You Sign

Turn Your Sidewalk into a Masterpiece

Make a Music Video

Remember to Stay Safe

Dental Health Month on a Leap Year

Pediatric Dentists in Tucson

Schedule an Appointment

Two Times a Day

Two Minutes

Circles

New Year, New Dental Coverage!

Food Drive

Donation Guidelines

Most Needed Items

Donate to Win!

Give Back

1. Watch Positive Videos

2. Read Fun Books!

3. Role Play

Prepare for a Dental Visit at Great Grins

Nitrous Oxide Benefits

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Should My Child Receive Laughing Gas?

How Nitrous Oxide Works

Nitrous Oxide in Tucson Office

Extractions

Does My Child Need a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth Extractions and Your Child

Recovery Time

Pediatric Dentist in Tucson

Our Address

Our Hours

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