According to the American Dental Association, tooth sealants reduce the risk of cavities by nearly 80 percent. The Centers for Disease Control states that “school-aged children without sealants have almost three times more cavities than children with sealants.” No wonder so many children’s dentists recommend them!
A tooth sealant is a thin, plastic coating that dentists paint over the chewing surface of the molars. They keep food particles, acids, and disease-causing bacteria away from the surface of the teeth, effectively preventing decay. Whether or not your child has dental insurance, the investment in dental sealants one worth making.
Continue reading to learn about two other preventive treatments for kids.
Dental Cleanings
Children should attend their first dental appointment by age one or six months after their first tooth develops (whichever comes first). From that time on, they should visit the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and exam.
Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining a healthy smile, especially for children who are learning how to clean their teeth well. Even adults miss parts of their mouths while brushing! Professional cleanings ensure that every tooth is free of plaque and tartar to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Bringing children to the dentist at an early age creates good habits and helps build a positive relationship between the dentist and child. Children (and many adults) are often fearful of the dentist. However, when children have the opportunity to build a trusting relationship with their dentist, it makes the appointments easier for all parties involved. Children’s dentists also focus on teaching parents how to properly care for their little ones’ mouths, including tips and tricks to make oral hygiene fun.
Fluoride Treatments
Did you know that fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral? It can be found in both seawater and freshwater. Here’s a fun fact: fluoride is the 13th most abundant element on the earth’s crust.
The synthesized fluoride that we create in laboratories is safe and extremely helpful for preventing, slowing down, and stopping decay. This form of fluoride is put in toothpaste, mouthwashes, and our city water systems.
Dentists also provide fluoride treatments to help strengthen dental enamel on children’s teeth. This is a simple process of brushing the fluoride varnish on the front and chewing surfaces of the teeth two to four times a year.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Imagine for a second what difficulties you would face without teeth. Eating and speaking would become extremely difficult, and you would probably deal with overall health and mental health problems.
The same is true for children. Toddlers learning to chew and speak need teeth in order to do those things properly. Chewing food also contributes to getting all the right nutrients and good digestion. Proper dental development will help your little one grow into a confident and self-assured person because of her smile’s appearance as well as all the benefits that come with a healthy mouth.
Dental Sealants and Other Preventive Treatments in Lombard, IL
Want to ensure your child has the best chance at a healthy mouth? Our family dentist, Dr. Julie Glud, offers preventive care to children and their parents! Her goal is to see all of her patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
Contact our friendly dental team today at (630) 629-5700 to schedule an initial consultation.
