pediatric dentist Yucaipa CA

Dr. Rick Nichols and team, serving Redlands and the surrounding areas, deliver the highest quality pediatric dental care in a personalized environment. We make dental treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say!

A special office and staff for a special guy ...
"My son, Luke, has Sotos Syndrome. He is 18 years old with moderate retardation, fine and gross motor skill challenges and is 6'7" tall. Dr Nichols and staff understand Luke's situation but also understand that Luke's needs are not different than anyone elses. Luke is always treated and talked to with respect and the the same kindness and care that all the kids at his office receive. Dr. Nichols and staff expect Luke to practice proper care of his teeth and in an understanding and loving way challenges him. Luke has been a patience for many years and I feel blessed that Dr. Nichols has followed his passion and gift to provide dental care to children. Thank you!"
- Luke G.

NO FEAR
"My son has no hesitation when it is time to visit the dentist. He is treated so well, from the gentle and encouraging staff right down to the flavors of flouride, needs are met above and beyond. He loves his dentist. Thank You Rick and everyone for caring for the heart too.."
-Shane L.

love it
"Love that all the worker are happy to be there. I believe it takes the fear of the dentist from the kids. It's nice to see a place that everywhere you look you see people smiling. We have been Goin there for 7 years and never had a bad experience! Thanks Dr. Nichols and the team"
-Emily

great place, great pediatric dentist!
"Dr Nichols and his staff were so awesome.. The environment was so friendly and non threatening to my daughter, who was bearly 2years old, that she felt it was ok to leave mommy and went to the dentist chair for Dr Nichols to examine her teeth for the very first time."
-Elizabeth

Every Kid In The IE Should Be So Lucky
My 6 year old son has two rotten molars that prompted us to go to try two "family" dentists near where we live. Both dentist were barley able to work on him as he was extremely anxious and fearful and fought them. The latter referred us to Dr. Nichols who specializes in children. Yesterday he saw both my 6 year old and my 3 year old and neither boy can wait to go back! They both told me they had "fun" at the dentists. I can't imagine that statement is made by many children. Everyone from the receptionists, to the assistants, to the Dr. himself is warm, friendly and inviting and sets the children at ease. My oldest was most impressed that he got to wander around and watch everything that was going on before it was even his turn to go back. I was most impressed that it is not going to cost us an arm and a leg to utilize such a specialized facility. When the receptionist showed us the charges, it was several hundred less than we had anticipated making it more than affordable for us. As long as we live in So Cal, we'll use Dr. Nichols as my children's dentist. No question.
-Billy H.

Thank you so much for all of your kind words. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment!

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to parents, caregivers, consumers, and dental care professionals about reports of serious injuries and potential hazards associated with the use of all models of the Spinbrush- specifically the Arm & Hammer or Crest Spinbrush.

While turned on, the brush head has come off in the user's mouth or near the face, causing cuts to the mouth and gums, chipped or broken teeth, swallowing and choking on the broken pieces, or injuries to the face and eyes, according to the FDA's warning.

The FDA warned about the following models:
- Sprinbrush ProClean
- Sprinbrush ProClean Recharge
- Spinbrush Pro Whitening
- Sprinbrush SONIC
- Spinbrush SONIC Recharge
- Spinbrush Swirl
- Spinbrush Classic Clean
- Spinbrush for Kids
- Spinbrush Replacement Heads

For more information, visit the FDA website or ask Dr. Nichols at your next appointment.

All of us at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry are excited to announce our new Photo Contest! All you have to do is snap a silly picture while brushing or flossing your teeth and post it on our Just for Kids Facebook page. If you're the winner, you get two prize to choose from: either a Beach Cruiser or 2 Annual Disneyland passes!!

Next, tell your friends and family to "Like" our page to vote for your picture. Must have a minimum of 100 Likes to qualify.

This contest will go from today, May 1st through June 21st, the first day of summer, so don't delay in submitting your silly pictures on the Just for Kids Facebook page. Good luck!

With spring here, many children, teens and adults will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, we urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your or your child’s mouth’s safety this spring:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or visit this great article. Stay safe and have fun!

Recently Dr. Rick Nichols and the Just for Kids team participated in Give Kids a Smile. It was a great experience, and the volunteers who went to Give Kids a Smile shared their testimonials with us:

"It is amazing to be able to help children who would not otherwise be able to have dental treatment. And to see the appreciation on their parents faces."
-Shawna

"GKAS is a great event. It is rewarding to help the kids with their dental needs and give back to the community."
-Roxy

"For me, GKAS was an awesome experience. It was great to make parents happy and help kids that needed it."
-Vanessa

We look forward to participating in the next event! Have a great weekend!

We know kids have a lot of questions for the tooth fairy, but she's just so busy and can't stop by to answer them all. Well, now it's easier than ever to get in touch with the tooth fairy!

Simply send your questions to the tooth fairy by emailing JFKtoothfairy@aol.com. You can email her at any time with your questions or if you need some advice for your teeth and smile. She loves receiving questions, so don't hesitate to ask!

Of course, if you have any urgent needs, you can stop by Just for Kids, or give us a call at the office!

Your child should visit Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. Depending on the circumstances of your child's oral health, more frequent visits may be recommended. Generally fluoride treatments are also recommended twice a year to keep teeth at their strongest.

Even though your child’s primary teeth don’t last as long as permanent teeth, your child's first teeth play an important role in development. While they're in place, these primary teeth help your little one speak, smile, and chew properly. They also hold space in the jaw for permanent teeth. If your child loses a tooth too early (due to damage or decay) nearby teeth may intrude on that space, which can result in crooked or misplaced permanent teeth.

Children with healthy mouths have a better chance of general health. Oral conditions can interfere with eating and adequate nutritional intake, speaking, self-esteem, and daily activities. Severe tooth decay can even affect growth and development. A healthy mouth is more attractive, giving children confidence in their appearance. Finally, preventive dentistry can result in less extensive, and less expensive, treatment for your child.

Toothaches occur when the nerve root of a tooth is irritated and can be caused by an infection, gum disease, decay (cavities), or injury. If your child complains of a toothache, rinse his or her mouth with warm water and inspect the teeth to be sure there is nothing caught between them. If pain continues, use a cold compress to ease the pain. Do not apply heat or any kind of aspirin or topical pain reliever directly to the affected area, as this can cause damage to the gums. Children's pain relievers may be taken orally.

If the toothache persists, it is important to call us at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry to determine the cause of the pain and provide relief. Immediate contact should be pursued if your child experiences:

• Pain that is not be relieved by over-the-counter drugs
• Pain associated with swelling of the gums or face, or discharge around a tooth, especially if accompanied by a fever
• Broken or knocked-out teeth from an accident or injury

Keeping your child’s teeth in the best possible condition will help them maintain optimum oral health for the rest of their lives. When brushing and flossing isn’t enough, we may suggest placing a dental sealant on your child’s teeth. Children who have dental sealants can decrease their chance of tooth decay by 60%! Sealants are a safe, effective way to ensure your child’s dental health for years to come.

Dental sealants work by providing a protective shield over the tiny grooves and depressions found on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth or molars. While brushing and flossing is still essential even if your child has a sealant, this coating will help vulnerable areas from tooth decay by "sealing out" plaque and food.

If we think a sealant would be a good option for your child, a simple office visit is all it takes. One of our friendly dental hygienists or assistants will thoroughly clean your child’s teeth before applying the white or clear liquid-plastic material to the tooth’s surface. Sealants can protect teeth from decay for up to ten years, but they need to be checked for chipping or wearing at your child’s regular checkups with Dr. Rick Nichols.

With the arrival of your little one, it’s important to prepare for the arrival of their first tooth. Even before your child’s first tooth appears, his or her gums can benefit from your careful attention. After breast- or bottle-feeding, wrap your finger with a damp washcloth and gently rub across your baby’s gums. This will also reinforce the habit of brushing after eating as your baby grows up.

Your baby’s first tooth will make its grand entrance at about six months, and the rest of the primary teeth will come in during the next two years. When the first tooth erupts, it's time to upgrade to a baby toothbrush. There are usually two options: a long-handled toothbrush that you and your baby can hold at the same time, and a finger-puppet-like brush that fits over the tip of your pointer finger. In each case the bristles are soft and few. At this stage, toothpaste isn't necessary; just dip the brush in water before brushing.

When a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste with your child's brush. However, for the first two years, be sure to choose toothpaste that does not contain fluoride, unless advised to do so otherwise. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing to prepare him or her for fluoride toothpaste, which should not be swallowed at any age.

Be sure to schedule an appointment within six months of when your child’s first tooth comes in, and no later than your child’s first birthday. Early dental visits are the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental disease and helping your child build a cavity-free smile.

Dr. Rick Nichols and our team at Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry recently read a fascinating article from The New York Times regarding the rise in cavities in preschoolers.

According to the article, "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted an increase, the first in 40 years, in the number of preschoolers with cavities in a study five years ago. But dentists nationwide say they are seeing more preschoolers at all income levels with 6 to 10 cavities or more. The level of decay, they added, is so severe that they often recommend using general anesthesia because young children are unlikely to sit through such extensive procedures while they are awake."

We know our younger pages can be apprehensive about their dental care and treatment and if a child needs a lot of dental work done, anesthesia may be necessary to perform the required procedures. The article states that "there is no central clearinghouse for data on the number of young children undergoing general anesthesia to treat multiple cavities, but interviews with 20 dentists and others in the field of dental surgery suggest that the problem is widespread."

While this problem is widespread, it can be prevented. According to the New York Times article: "Dentists offer a number of reasons so many preschoolers suffer from such extensive dental decay. Though they are not necessarily new, they have combined to create a growing problem: endless snacking and juice or other sweet drinks at bedtime, parents who choose bottled water rather than fluoridated tap water for their children, and a lack of awareness that infants should, according to pediatric experts, visit a dentist by age 1 to be assessed for future cavity risk, even though they may have only a few teeth.

And because some toddlers dislike tooth-brushing, some parents do not enforce it. “Let’s say a child is 1 ½, and the child screams when they get their teeth cleaned,” said Dr. Jed Best, a pediatric dentist in Manhattan. 'Some parents say, ‘I don’t want my little darling to be traumatized.’ The metaphor I give them is, ‘I’d much rather have a kid cry with a soft toothbrush than when I have to drill a cavity.’' "

We encourage to to visit the article to learn more about cavity prevention and the growing problem of cavities in young children. If you have any questions about your child's dental health, don't hesitate to give us a call at the office!

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Rick Nichols and thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, Dr. Nichols and our team want you to think about childhood diabetes and obesity as well as the positive effect of healthful eating and physical activity can improve your child's oral health.

Small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your family's diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your family's diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in Redlands, and the surrounding communities.

• Make each and every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• It’s tempting, but…: If your child has a sweet tooth, offer them fruit and yogurt for dessert. If they crave a snack in the afternoon, they might enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about healthy diets or keeping yourself, your children and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

Link: http://www.eatright.org/nnm/

Attention Fathers: Do you want to spend a special night out with your daughters? Well, you and your daughters are invited to attend a Chick-fil-A Daddy-Daughter Date Night!

You can sign up to reserve a table online! Once your table is reserved, head over to your local participating Chick-fil-A® on March 8, 2012. The only charge will be the price of food. We hope you can make it to this fun event!

As always, if you have any questions about this event or about your child's dental health, feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Valentine’s Day was yesterday, and there is a lot of candy making the rounds this week. It’s once again time to remind all our patients to be extra careful when choosing those candies and treats!

All candy, soft or hard, sticky or chewy, can cause cavities. However, hard and sticky candies are extra bad for teeth because they can break teeth and fillings.

We recommend softer treats, such as soft chocolate or peanut butter cups, or melt-in-your-mouth foods. Dr. Nichols also encourages kids to make candy a special treat, not something to have a lot of at one time, or very often. Those who indulge should make sure they brush and floss between teeth, as well as at the gum line, immediately afterwards.

All of us at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry hope you had a great Valentine’s Day!

For the past 62 Februaries, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic. In 1981, however, the program was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Each February, Dr. Rick Nichols and thousands of dental professionals focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Dr. Nichols and our staff want you to remember developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at Just for Kids thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.

• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.

• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.

• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.

• Regular dental visits: You should visit us regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 62nd year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your child’s mouth healthy, or about your child’s treatment with Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry, please feel free to give us a call!

Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry, serving Redlands, CA and the surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

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Thank you,

The team at Just for Kids

We all know that eating a healthy, nutrient rich diet can keep our bodies healthy. But, did you also know that the foods you eat can affect your mouth by building healthier teeth and gums, and also by helping prevent tooth decay and gum disease? According to an article from Everyday Health, "A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and unsaturated fats will benefit your overall oral health — and there are a few standout foods and nutrients that can really boost it." Those standout items include:

Calcium: Consuming dairy products builds strong bones and teeth, and calcium is vital in childhood and through the teen years -- when the teeth are being formed. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). In fact, calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Vitamin C: According to the article, "The body needs vitamin C to repair connective tissue and help the body fight off infection." The chances of gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, can be significantly lowered with the regular consumption of vitamin C. Everyday Health recommends eating one piece of citrus fruit (oranges, grapefruits, tangerines) or a kiwi daily will help you meet the RDA for vitamin C.

Water: "Drinking plenty of water benefits teeth as it helps rinse away both bacteria and the remnants of food that bacteria turns into plaque. Tap water is better for teeth than bottled because it contains fluoride, which prevents tooth decay."

Remember to brush and floss after each meal, or at least rinse your mouth with water. It is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day, and visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups. If you have any questions, we encourage you to visit the article or ask us at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry.

Have a great week!

With all of the football games going on, and in preparation for the Super Bowl, we are doing another guessing game this month at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry! All you have to do is guess how many footballs are in our jar at the office, and if you are closest to the actual number you would win a Super Bowl Basket that includes chips, dip and other cool prizes that will be perfect for February 5th!

Give us your best guess the next time you are in the office! Keep your eye on right here on our blog and on our Facebook page for more contest updates and office news. We look forward to seeing you all soon!

Are you looking to keep your child's teeth healthy in 2012? Dr. Rick Nichols and our team at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry are here to help you with that goal! We recently found a great article from Everyday Health that suggests 11 bad habits for kids' teeth and we wanted to share them with you! The bad habits that they suggest include:

• Avoiding the dentist
• Middle of the night breastfeeding
• Sucking a baby bottle at night
• Sipping on sippy cups all day
• Swallowing toothpaste
• Thumb-sucking with big-kid teeth
• Giving pacifiers to preschoolers
• Biting pencils
• Nail biting
• Drinking sugary sodas

Eliminating these bad habits can not only reduce cavities, but can also help your child form healthy dental habits early. To read more about why these habits are bad for your child, we encourage you to visit the article. If you have any questions, feel free to ask Dr. Nichols at your next appointment, or ask us on Facebook!

Does your child drink a lot of apple juice? If so, it might be time to cut back! Our team at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry recently read an article from Everyday Health about the issues with apple juice and your child's health.

In a recent study from Consumer Reports, "researchers tested 88 samples and found that nine of them from five brands — Apple & Eve, Great Value, Mott’s, Walgreens, and Welch’s — had “unsafe” levels of arsenic up to 27 parts per billion (ppb), well above the federal standard of 10 ppb. Great Value, Walgreen’s, and Welch’s also had elevated levels of lead, as did America’s Choice, Gerber, Gold Emblem, Joe’s Kids, Minute Maid, and Seneca."

But, that isn't the only harmful thing about too much juice. According to the article, "the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) warns that kids who drink a lot of juice are more prone to diarrhea, cavities, malnourishment, and obesity. And that’s true even of brands that don’t have elevated arsenic levels. The real villain, experts say, is sugar, which sounds far less menacing but is every bit as damaging to your child’s health...But it’s not just what they’re putting in their bodies that causes problems; it’s what they’re not putting in, too, Marshall says. 'When kids drink a lot of juice or soda, they're drinking less milk and may not be getting enough calcium and other nutrients in their diet.'"

That doesn't mean juice should be completely eliminated from your child's diet...just cut back. The better alternative for kids is low-fat milk or water. Juice should be saved for a special treat. One hundred percent juices are better for your child than juice drinks or cocktails because they have more naturally occuring ingredients. You can also cut the juice fifty percent with water to cut down the calories and sugar.

If you have any questions, we encourage you to check out the article or ask Dr. Nichols at your next appointment!

Everybody is jumping on the electric toothbrush bandwagon in recent years, with many experts in the dental field claiming electric toothbrushes provide superior dental care. It’s true that electric toothbrushes are recommended for those who can’t do a good job brushing manually or who have arthritis or other conditions. But manual toothbrushes do have some advantages, according to an article we recently found including:

• Cost. While electric toothbrushes may be expensive for many people, manual toothbrushes are both inexpensive and accessible.

• Less pressure on your teeth & gums. While we can feel the amount of pressure we’re using as we grasp our manual toothbrush, we can’t feel the pressure nearly as well with an electric toothbrush. Placing too much pressure on our teeth can wear away at the tooth enamel, which causes pain, sensitivity, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Simple to pack. Manual toothbrushes are easy to carry around for those business or family trips. People are less likely to let their good dental care habits lapse on vacation with a toothbrush that they can easily bring along!

• Better for kids. Learning at a young age how to properly use a manual toothbrush helps children get a feel for how to properly take care of their oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more effective in removing plaque and are considered a better alternative to maintaining gum health. Remember, whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, Dr. Rick Nichols and our team encourage you to choose one with soft bristles and be sure to change the bristles on the electric brush when they become worn down. We also encourage you to replace your toothbrush every three months, when the bristles are no longer straight and firm or after you recover from a cold.

Give us a call at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

Happy brushing

When your child needs urgent dental treatment, Dr. Rick Nichols and our team at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry stand ready to help 24/7/365. Here are some helpful answers to some recent patient questions.

Q: What should I do if my child’s baby tooth is knocked out?
A: Contact Just for Kids as soon as possible.

Q: What should I do if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked out?
A: Call Dr. Nichols right away!!! Find the tooth and rinse it gently water, milk, saline solution for contacts, or saliva. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap — use just water!), being careful not to touch the root. If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saline, saliva, or water. Get to our office immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?
A: Contact Just for Kids immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you when you visit Dr. Nichols.

Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?
A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening. Once the emergency room or hospital has released you, call Dr. Nichols and he will gladly meet you, and check for any dental trauma.

Q: What if my child has a toothache?
A: Call us and/or visit Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry promptly. We will do our very best to make room in our schedule to see a child in pain as soon as possible. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with warm (not hot) water. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.

Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?
A: Of course! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing mouth guards. Custom mouth guards provide the best protection. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls, electrical injuries, and choking on small objects. Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with good oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits too .

Contact our Redlands, CA dental office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Nichols. We love what we do and enjoy every day watching our patients grow and smile as they visit our office.

We love the month of December here at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry! We have a guessing game for patients who have appointments this month. Patients will be asked to guess the number of M&Ms, and patient who is closest to the number of M&Ms will win a Christmas Movie Basket that includes Christmas movies, hot chocolate and more fun goodies! The winner will be announced on December 22nd, so keep your eye on our social networks!

We are also hosting a toy drive to help the Ronald McDonald House this month! Patients can bring in new, unwrapped toys to our office that we will send to the Ronald McDonald House. The toys will be going to children with cancer, so please donate toys that can be wiped clean, no plush toys. If you have any questions about this toy drive, give our office a call or ask us on Facebook!

We thank you in advance for your support this holiday season. Dr. Nichols and team wish you a very happy December!

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Did you know teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children as well? In fact, three out of 10 kids grind or clench their teeth, usually in response to losing teeth, jaw growth or other discomforts, such as allergies or infections. Teeth grinding is typically a passing phenomena as most kids outgrow it by the time they reach 7 or 8 years old, however some teeth grinding can be related to high levels of stress, or associated with difficulty breathing during sleep or an actual sleeping disorder. Taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. If the problem persists, then an evaluation by the Pediatrician or ENT may be in order.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

If your child is a teeth grinder, we may be able to help. Please give us a call or ask Dr. Rick Nichols and team on Facebook!

With the start of the busy holiday season right around the corner, Dr. Rick Nichols and our staff at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our dental family. We realize that our practice thrives because of great patients like you. We are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you and your smile healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

We would like to know: What are you thankful for this year? Let us know on our Facebook page! Feel free to post your Thanksgiving photos and stories as well.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Did you know that a single toothbrush can carry as many as 10 million germs and bacteria!? Our team at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry recently read an interesting article about toothbrush care that we thought you would enjoy.

The article from Everyday Health stated that even though a toothbrush can carry that many germs and bacteria, it is usually not a threat to your teeth. It is, however, important to properly care for your toothbrush. Some toothbrush tips that the article suggests are:

• Rinse your toothbrush in tap water, and let it air dry so that germs can’t survive.

• Store your toothbrush in an upright position.

• If you’re concerned about your dental care, you can soak your toothbrush in alcohol, mouthwash, a solution of half water and half hydrogen peroxide, or dip it in boiling water for about 5 to 10 seconds to kill the germs.

• The American Dental Association recommends getting a new toothbrush or brush head every 3 months.

• Check your child’s toothbrush regularly for frayed bristles, as they typically need to be replaced more frequently.

We encourage you to visit the article for more helpful toothbrush tips. If you have any questions about toothbrushes or your child's dental care, ask Dr. Nichols at your next appointment or leave us a comment on Facebook!

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Rick Nichols and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Redlands, CA office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others. Remember to change your toothbrush once the cold/flu has finished to reduce the chances of reinfection. We are happy to give you a new toothbrush at our office. Feel free to stop by and pick one up!

And remember to wash your hands often and avoid contact with those who are ill! When washing your hands, remember to follow these hand washing steps: Wet your hands with clean, warm running water and apply soap. Rub your hands together and scrub them well. Remember to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails. Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds. If you need some help timing your hand washing, hum the Happy Birthday song from beginning to end two times. Rinse your hands well under running water. Use a clean towel to dry your hands, or allow them to air dry. Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to eliminate germs.

Stay healthy!

It’s that spooky time of year again and Dr. Rick Nichols and our team thought we’d share some Halloween tips for all of you trick-or-treaters.

Trick-or-treating safety guidelines:

• Young children should always be accompanied by an adult
• Carry a flashlight
• Wear a light-colored or reflective costume
• Choose face paint over masks for young ghosts and goblins
• Have an adult inspect all treats before the children dig in

Don't forget that sticky and hard candies can break teeth and loosen fillings and sealants. Substitute candies that are soft, such as soft chocolate that can melt in one’s mouth or peanut butter cups. Overall, candies that aren’t sticky, chewy, hard or crunchy are generally acceptable.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from the entire team at Just for Kids Pediatric Dentistry!

One question our staff at Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry hears all the time is, “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in, switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact our office.

At Dr. Rick Nichols office, we offer Just For Kids, a .4% Stannous Fluoride Brush-on Gel. It provides excellent protection for children who are prone to cavities, or children who currently have cavities. This type of fluoride has been proven in many studies to be effective in preventing decay. It is available in three great tasting flavors, and your children will actually look forward to brushing their teeth!

Here are some tips for proper brushing, rinsing, and flossing:

- You are the most important element in guiding your children to great lifelong dental health habits. Make sure to supervise your children as they brush and rinse, until they are able to properly do it themselves. This usually occurs between the ages of 6 and 8. Supervise your children at least twice daily: after breakfast and prior to bedtime.

- Bring your child into our office shortly after his or her first tooth appears. It is important to see the dentist every two years, no matter what your age!

- Floss daily between any of your children's teeth that come in contact with adjacent teeth. Continue flossing daily until your children are able to effectively floss themselves.

- Make sure toothpaste, rinses, and gels (like Just For Kids) is not swallowed by your children. Teach them how to spit excess toothpaste out of their mouths. If necessary, use a washcloth or gauze to remove any excess.

- Only use soft-bristled toothbrushes and small, circular brush strokes while brushing your children's teeth. Additionally, discard and replace your child's toothbrush at the start of an illness to prevent re-contamination. Discard and replace again when your child is feeling better.

For more oral health tips or to learn more about Just For Kids, visit our website or give our office a call. Happy brushing!

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Dr. Rick Nichols wants to remind you that vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge, remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that “sweet tooth,” but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
• Bread
• Pretzels (low salt)
• Milk (low or non-fat)
• Cheese (low or non-fat)
• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
• Sliced meat

If you would like more advice about how you can prevent cavities, give Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry a call or ask Dr. Nichols during your next appointment.

Dr. Rick Nichols will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles can harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth. It is also a recommended to replace a toothbrush after a child has been sick with a cold or flu to prevent re-infection.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums and tongue.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible! You can also find links to helpful information on our website, or by visiting www.AAPD.org

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children. This week we are helping to spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us— Dr. Rick Nichols will gladly create a custom fitting mouth guard for your child-athlete.

Today we wanted to answer your frequently asked questions about mouth guards. If you have any additional questions, give us a call at Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry. We'd love to hear from you!

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?
A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?
A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect not just the teeth, but also the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They help protect children from such head and neck injuries as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should my child wear a mouth guard?
A: Whenever he or she is in an activity with a risk of falls or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard for my child?
A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. So, choose a mouth guard that your child can wear comfortably. If a mouth guard feels bulky or interferes with speech or breathing, it should be replaced with a proper fitting one as soon as possible.

You can select from several options in mouth guards. First, preformed or "boil-to-fit" mouth guards are found in sports stores. Different types and brands vary in terms of comfort, protection, and cost. Second, customized mouth guards are provided through our office. They cost a bit more, but they are more comfortable and more effective in preventing injuries. Dr. Nichols can advise you on what type of mouth guard is best for your child.

At Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we know teething patterns vary greatly from child to child—some don’t have any teeth by their first birthday, while others have a mouthful by then. Experts, however, including our friends at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, do recommend that children have their teeth checked by their first birthdays.

Your child will most likely have 20 baby teeth, which will later be replaced by permanent teeth. In very rare occasions, a child can be born with teeth already erupting. These are called Natal or Neonatal teeth. Most children can expect their first tooth to come in as early as 3 months or as late as 15 months of age, however primary teeth usually begin to break through the gums when a child is about 6 months old. Most kids have all of their primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old.

The most important thing is not to worry if your toddler’s pearly whites don’t look perfect as they come in—baby teeth come in all shapes, sizes, and directions. Teeth generally appear one at a time over a period of months, and often—but not always—in this order: First the bottom two middle teeth, then the top two middle ones, then the ones along the sides and back. (They may not all come in straight, but don't worry—they usually straighten out over time.) Besides crooked teeth, your child may experience crowded or spaced-out teeth, missing teeth, supernumerary (too many) teeth and even discolored teeth.

If you have any questions about your toddler’s teeth, or if your child is experiencing issues that concern you, please give us a call to set up an appointment with Dr. Rick Nichols. Or, we invite you to ask us on Facebook!

At Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we know getting kids and teens to eat healthy isn’t always an easy task, especially when they’re busy with school and other school- and social-related activities. At the school cafeteria, it's just too easy for kids to nosh on French fries, chicken nuggets and other fried foods and unhealthy snacks, so Dr. Rick Nichols and our team thought we’d pass along five delicious and nutritious snacks we know your child will love.

1. Cheese – Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheese stimulates the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

2. Blueberries - These tiny nutritional powerhouses are loaded with Vitamin C, as well as folic acid, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals, which have shown to help prevent cancer and diabetes. Kids love them sprinkled with a bit of sugar, topped with whipped cream, added to muffins and pancakes.

3. Whole wheat bread or cereal – With bread, kids get their iron, vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk—and even fruit—is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.

4. Almonds - They’re rich in disease-fighting phytochemicals and Vitamin E, and also have good amounts of fiber, iron, and calcium. Let your kids eat them raw. (Note: Whole nuts are a choking hazard for children under 3 years old.)

5. Yogurt - Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, especially when whipped up in a parfait with berries and granola. Homemade fruity yogurt pop sure beats sugary store-bought frozen treats!

We encourage you to check out the other 15 healthy snacks your child can enjoy at any time of the day! For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please post your question here on our blog, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Dr. Rick Nichols and our team at Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy them!

• The second most common childhood disease in the United States is tooth decay. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pokes and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

At Just For Kids Pediatric Dentistry, we believe a child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. And that's precisely why our team at Just For Kids makes a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. We want you to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. For more information on the advantages of pediatric dentistry at Just For Kids, please give us a call today to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Rick Nichols and his team will be fundraising at a Give Kids A Smile (GKAS) event this Sunday at Arrowhead Credit Union Park! The event is to raise funds for the 2012 GKAS clinics.

What: Rancho Cucamonga vs. 66ers Baseball Game

When: August 21, 2011

Where: Arrowhead Credit Union Park

Time: 6:05 pm

A portion of the cost of each ticket sold on Sunday will go towards GKAS. When you buy the ticket, make sure to mention that you are purchasing tickets benefiting GKAS and the proceeds will be placed accordingly. For more information, click here.

Make sure to look for our team when you are at the game. We hope to see you there this Sunday!

Dr. Rick Nichols wants to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.