April marks National Dental Hygienists Week, and we’re so excited to shine a spotlight on one of the biggest reasons our patients leave smiling: Kathiann, our incredibly kind, skilled, and endlessly patient dental hygienist. 🦷✨
💜 A Huge Thank You to Kathiann
At North Shore Smiles, Kathiann does so much more than clean teeth. She builds trust with our young patients, helps nervous kiddos feel brave in the chair, and gives parents the tools and knowledge they need to support oral health at home. We couldn’t do what we do without her—and this month, we’re giving her the recognition she deserves!
Kathiann, thank you for your warmth, your expertise, and the calm, steady care you bring to every appointment. Your dedication to our patients—and their parents—makes all the difference.
To celebrate, we asked Kathiann: What do you wish every parent knew?
Read on to see what she (and most hygienists!) want you to know—but might not always have the time to say…
🪥 What Your Dental Hygienist Wants You to Know
1. We can tell when you’re not brushing or flossing… and that’s OK—let’s work on it together.
Kathiann puts it best: We’re here to help, not to judge. If there’s plaque or signs of missed brushing, we use that info to give helpful tips—not guilt trips.
2. “My kid hates brushing!” is more common than you think.
A LOT of kids resist brushing—and that’s totally normal. Try brushing together, turning it into a silly song or dance party, or using a fun timer. Kathiann always says: Consistency > perfection!
3. Flossing needs to happen earlier than most parents realize.
As soon as two teeth are touching, flossing matters. It helps prevent cavities between the teeth—especially in those hard-to-reach molars.
4. What you do between visits matters most.
We only see your child twice a year. What happens at home—daily brushing, water after snacks, healthy habits—is what makes the real difference.
5. We want you to ask questions.
Whether it’s about toothpaste, floss, brushing struggles, or fluoride—Kathiann loves when parents speak up. We want you to feel confident and supported.
🖍️ Smile-Friendly Tip of the Month
Try a reward chart!
Sticker charts can be a great motivator for brushing and flossing. A week of consistent brushing could equal a small prize (like extra storytime or choosing the next family movie!). It’s fun, low-pressure, and builds great habits.Click the chart below to download a print-friendly version you can use at home!
📅 Is It Time for Your Child’s Next Visit?
We recommend visits every six months to stay ahead of potential issues. If you’re unsure when your child’s last cleaning was—or just want to ask us something—give us a call. Our team is always happy to help!
📞 Call us at 516-686-9494 or visit nssmiles.com to request an appointment online.
