Children have a high risk of developing cavities, especially since for many, brushing and flossing thoroughly can be a difficult task. In order to help children in Houston, TX, enjoy a reduced risk of tooth decay, our team may provide preventive treatment options, such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Find out how these unique treatments can help protect little smiles from cavities.
When should you be concerned about your child’s smile? Well, if your little one complains about an aching tooth, or pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and beverages, then let us know. Discomfort could be related to a cavity. In addition, when you attend routine six-month checkups and cleanings, this gives our team a chance to examine your child’s teeth and gums, and monitor their smile’s growth and development. We can then identify problems like tooth decay in the earliest possible stages. Remember, treating cavities, even when they appear in baby teeth, is essential for avoiding painful infections and other complications.
When the United States started adding fluoride to drinking water, the rates of tooth decay in people of all ages decreased. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel, rebuilding this protective layer and preventing the erosion that leads to tooth decay. We can apply a fluoride varnish during your child’s regular checkup and cleaning visit. Applying the varnish only take a few moments and can help strengthen their smile. We can then re-apply in future visits!
Even when kids brush and floss daily, they may have trouble doing so properly, often missing the rear molars. As a result, food trapped between these teeth stay there and are essentially broken down by bacteria, a process that leads to increased oral acidity, plaque buildup, and cavities. To combat this, we will apply a special plastic coating to these teeth. We dry the area and place the coating, curing it quickly. The layer prevents food from becoming stuck on or between these teeth, reducing the risk of cavities in young children. The sealants can stay in place for years and will wear away naturally with time. If necessary, we can also add another layer later in life. If you have any questions about either of our preventive treatment options, or if you would like to schedule a checkup and cleaning for your child, then please contact our team today.
We would like to help your children enjoy optimal oral health, which means offering preventive exams and cleanings, treatments, and discussing proper brushing and flossing at home. To learn more about our approach to children’s dentistry, then please schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Chan by calling MMC Dental in Houston, TX, today at (713) 926-8896.
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