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NEW We’re now welcoming new patients.

Magnolia Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

#1 Chicago Pediatric Dentist | Dr. Melissa Connell , DMD

Drs. Melissa Connell and Megan Davenport – work together to ensure your child has a pleasant, happy experience at each visit!

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    • FAQ
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    • Glossary of Terms
  • Treatment +
    • Early Dental Care
    • Pediatric Dentistry
    • Teething
    • Thumb Sucking
    • Fluoride and Your Child
    • For Pregnant Moms
    • Nitrous Oxide for Children
    • Space Maintainers
    • Sleep Apnea
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  • Book Appointment

Tooth Decay Prevention

Keeping your children healthy is our top priority and this starts with home care. Controlling their diet to keep their body and teeth healthy is a great start, and we’ll add other services and products to make their teeth strong.

Mother and Child

Fluoride

Teeth become stronger and more resistant to decay when we drink fluoridated water, along with flossing and brushing daily. The city of Chicago fluoridated our drinking water, which can reduce cavities. The doctors at Magnolia Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics can evaluate the levels of fluoride in your drinking water and recommend supplements if necessary. Many kinds of toothpaste, mouthwashes, and dental floss contain fluoride.

Regular Dental Visits

It is vital to have professional cleaning and regular check-ups to maintain a healthy smile. At Magnolia Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics we recommend you visit your dentist every six months. At each appointment, Dr. Rupal Naik and her team will examine your teeth and provide a personalized plan for you or your child’s current dental problems and possible treatments.

Tooth Decay Prevention

The best way to prevent tooth decay is to avoid a sugary diet. Tooth decay is damage to the tooth’s surface, caused by acids that are produced from sugars consumed in your diet reacting with naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth. These acids decay the enamel in your tooth which results in cavities. At Magnolia Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics we remove the decay and complete the treatment with a filling or crown, depending on your unique situation. A strict hygiene routine is the best way to avoid unnecessary decay, including brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental check-ups, a healthy diet, and fluoride treatment.

Diet Control

Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones, and soft tissues in the mouth require a well-balanced diet to stay healthy. Certain foods from the five food groups can help avoid cavities and other dental issues. Healthier foods, like vegetables, low-fat yogurt, and cheese can help promote stronger teeth. Sugary and starchy foods, like cookies, candy, chips, and crackers should be minimized.

Sealants

Tooth sealants can help protect against cavities and enamel breakdown caused by the acids and bacterias found in the mouth. Molars and grooves in the teeth are extremely difficult to clean and over time the enamel can get worn out. Sealants are resin materials designed to protect your teeth from bacteria and decay. Sealants are applied directly to your teeth and last several years but should be checked during your regular appointments.

Rupal Naik, DDS, MS
Zesheng Chen, DMD, MS
Melissa Connell, DDS, MS

Contact Us

1611 N. Wolcott Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
Click for Map & Directions
Welcoming New Patients
(312) 957-8131
Existing Patients
(312) 281-4860

Office Hours

Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Sunday: Closed

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Home
Patient Offers
Contact Us
Patient Info First Visit
FAQ
Common Problems
Emergencies
Decay Prevention
Glossary of Terms
Treatment Early Dental Care
Pediatric Dentistry
Teething
Thumb Sucking
Fluoride Treatment
Pregnancy and Child’s Teeth
Nitrous Oxide
Treatment Space Maintainers
Sleep Apnea in Children
Orthodontics Starting Age 7

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