Many people are interested in natural remedies. We have heard a few parents discussing oil pulling as a means to prevent cavities and promote a healthy smile. While brushing, flossing, and fluoride applications have been scientifically proven over many decades to prevent and help reverse early tooth decay, oil pulling is a popular topic that has been gaining a lot of attention. But does it actually work? Oil Pulling Basics Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in the mouth for several minutes, usually up to 20 minutes at a time. Traditionally, sesame oi ..read more

At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, we love answering your questions about ways to keep your kids’ smiles healthy.   When should my child see a dentist?   One of the first steps in ensuring your child’s dental health is to schedule their first dental visit and maintain regular checkups every six months after that. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the first visit should take place by your child’s first birthday or whenever their first tooth is erupting (whichever one comes first.)   When should I start brushing m ..read more

When it comes to achieving straight teeth, it can be tempting to try do-it-yourself (DIY) aligners as a more affordable or convenient solution to seeing an orthodontist. Unfortunately, there are serious risks associated with DIY aligners, and the experts at Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan recommend seeing a professional before starting any type of orthodontic treatment.   The Importance of Professional Guidance  Expertise Matters: Orthodontists undergo extensive training and education to specialize in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They posses ..read more

As parents, we strive to provide our children with a healthy and happy life. While regular brushing and flossing are crucial, it’s equally important to be mindful of the foods and drinks our children enjoy every day. At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, we’re here to help parents identify the worst food and drink culprits for their kid’s teeth, so they can avoid (or limit) them.    Sticky and Sugary Snacks are a Big Threat to Teeth   When it comes to your child’s dental health, foods with sticky textures and sugary drinks should be limited.&n ..read more

Hydration is a crucial aspect of maintaining overall health and wellbeing, and it’s also important for dental health. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth clean, fresh, and healthy. In fact, your child should be drinking more water than anything else.  Here’s why:  Your Mouth Will be Cleaner  Drinking water helps to wash away food particles that may be left behind after eating. It also helps to stimulate the production of saliva, which plays an essential role in neutralizing acids produced by oral bacteria.  Additionally, stale saliva in the mouth can become a ..read more

Calcium is a crucial nutrient for the development and maintenance of healthy teeth in children. As parents, we all want to make sure our children are getting the right nutrition to support their growing bodies, but milk contains a lot of sugar that can lead to decay. Milk is often touted as the go-to source of calcium for kids, but there are plenty of alternatives that can help them get the calcium they need.    As one of the key building blocks of teeth and bones, calcium helps to strengthen tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of the teeth that protects against decay and caviti ..read more

We are proud to announce that Hour Detroit has listed our entire group of doctors as Top Dentists 2023. Drs. Curt Ralstrom, Martin Makowski, Renee Fraser and Elizabeth Ralstom were recognized in the Pediatric Dentist category while Drs. Ari Thanasas, and Alan (“AJ”) Ker were recognized in the Orthodontist category.  “Top Dentist” honorees are selected by a vote of their peers. To be included in this list based, dentists and dental specialists must exhibit exemplary dental care, demonstrate a commitment to continuing education, provide caring chairside manner with patients, and continuousl ..read more

Drinking enough water is essential for good oral health, but getting children to drink enough can sometimes be a challenge. Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan has some simple tips to help you convince your child to drink more water:  Pick Out a Fun Cup or Water Bottle   One simple way to make drinking water more appealing to your child is to pick out a fun cup or water bottle. Look for one with their favorite characters, bright colors, or fun designs. Children are often more likely to drink from a cup or bottle that they find exciting.  Use a Reward ..read more

Choosing the right toothpaste for your child can be a challenge, especially with so many options available. From fruity flavors to characters on the packaging, it can be hard to know what to choose. Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan is here to help you navigate the world of toothpastes and find the right one for your child’s smile.   Make Sure it Has Fluoride   The most important thing to look for when choosing a toothpaste for your child is to pick one that contains fluoride. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen teeth and prevent ..read more

​April is Autism Awareness Month, a time when we focus on understanding the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that affects 1 in 54 children. As pediatric dentists, we understand the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all of our patients, including those with Autism. For children with Autism, dental hygiene can feel challenging or overwhelming, but we’ve found things that can make keeping your child’s teeth healthier a little easier. With a little patience and care, children with autism can develop consistent oral hygiene habits that will help keep their teeth healthy ..read more