The earlier your children begin receiving regular dental checkups and cleanings, the healthier their teeth and gums will be throughout their lives. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist within six months of the emergence of their first tooth or by his or her first birthday.
If you are looking for a doctor who offers children’s dentistry, look no further than Dr. Julie Glud and Dental Care of Lombard in Lombard, IL. Early oral exams can aid in the detection of tooth decay. After your child or toddler has his or first exam, Dr. Glud can give you a summary of your child’s oral health while explaining important oral hygiene tips to your child.
Children’s Dentistry Services We Offer
Cleanings and exams
During each visit to our Lombard dental office, one of our skilled staff members will gently clean your child’s teeth and remove any plaque or tartar. Plaque is a film of food particles and bacteria that forms on your child’s teeth. If plaque is not removed with proper brushing and dental cleanings, it can harden into tartar. Bacteria interacts with plaque and tartar to cause cavities and gum disease.
Tooth decay is a common chronic childhood illness in the U.S. Teaching your child how to properly brush and floss is a critical tool for preventing tooth decay. We will also discuss dental hygiene habits and healthy food choices.
Exams are important for diagnosing potential dental problems in the early stages. After your child’s exam, Dr. Glud will provide a detailed summary of your child’s oral health.
Fluoride Varnish
We may recommend applying fluoride varnish to your child’s teeth to strengthen their enamel. Fluoride in community water supplies is effective in preventing tooth decay by at least 25 percent in both children and adults, according to the American Dental Association.
Fluoride varnish will not completely prevent cavities, but it can be highly effective in preventing cavities or slowing the growth of decay. Only a small amount of varnish will be applied. Your child can enjoy the benefits of fluoride at home by using toothpaste and mouthwash that contain the enamel-hardening mineral.
Sealants
Sealants are a protective coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. The Centers for Disease Control noted that 90 percent of cavities occur in molars. The CDC report found that sealants “prevent about 90 percent” of molar cavities during the first year after placement and around 50 percent of cavities over the next five years after placement.
Sealants are non-invasive and completely non-toxic. They can be applied by Dr. Glud or one of our staff members in only a few minutes. Sealants are natural-looking and very affordable.
The protective coating can last for years. The strong material, which will not interfere with normal chewing function, can withstand years of wear and tear.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
Silver diamine fluoride is a liquid that is used to help prevent tooth cavities from forming or growing. The liquid consists of silver, water, fluoride, and trace amounts of ammonia.
Help Your Child Have a Lifetime of Healthy Teeth and Gums
A healthy smile begins with good dental habits. By giving your children a strong foundation of oral health by bringing them for exams and cleaning twice each year, you will set the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. To schedule an appointment for your child, please contact our office online or call us at (630) 629-5700
