We stress the importance of regular check-ups — it not only gives us the opportunity to supervise the development of your child’s teeth, but allows us to see early warning signs for a variety of problems including tooth decay and gum disease.
Regular check-ups include much more than a cleaning and fluoride treatment. We not only teach the importance of brushing and flossing habits, but take the time to ensure that you child has the right technique. We take pride in our ability to motivate children to take their dental health into their own hands.
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Proper oral health is an important step to preventing tooth decay and gum disease. To remove plaque and food particles, brushing with a soft-bristled brush (hard bristles can damage gums) is recommended after each meal and before going to bed at night. Toothbrushes should be replaced every three months or when the bristles become frayed.
Flossing is an important procedure as brushing alone only cleans 60% of the surface of your teeth — approximately 40% of your teeth are cleaned by flossing! Flossing not only removes food particles from between your teeth but by running the floss along teeth, it can remove plaque build-up which leads to tooth decay and bad breath. It is recommended that you rinse after flossing to remove any loose food particles in your mouth.
Diet and eating habits are also important contributors to your child’s dental health. We’ll answer any questions you may have — from which foods are hard on children’s teeth to the problems with snacking and everything in between.
Fluoride makes the enamel on teeth stronger and reduces the possibility of getting cavities. Although some toothpaste and mouth rinses can provide additional protection, we recommend the following two methods:
- Systemic fluoride is the swallowing of fluoride, either through drinking water, or in non-fluoridated areas it can be prescribed by a pediatrician or dentist.
- Topical fluoride is applied directly to the teeth in our office and should be repeated every six months.
These fluoride methods can provide up to a 60% reduction in tooth decay.
Mouthguards help prevent broken teeth and injuries to other areas including the lips, tongue, face and jaw. Properly fitted, a mouthguard protects your smile during any activity, will stay in place, and allows you to talk and breathe easily. Talk to us about having a high quality, custom mouthguard made especially for you.
Sealants protect areas of teeth vulnerable to decay by sealing out plaque and food. Sealants are easy to apply — it only takes a few minutes to seal each tooth. Sealants are bonded to the grooves of back teeth and help prevent cavities from starting.
With each six month visit we will provide parents with information of what to expect in-between visits.
