Your pediatric dentist in Burleson has several treatments available to prevent cavities in your children.
Cavity Prevention for Children in Burleson
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that people face, especially children. But don’t worry, there are ways to prevent cavities! At your child’s pediatric dentist in Burleson, we have several ways to help your children prevent cavities and have a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Burleson Pediatric Dentistry, we can help you choose the method that is right for you and your child, from sealants, fluoride, and reinforcing good hygiene habits.
Sealants
Cavity prevention sealants from your pediatric dentist in Burleson are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth or molars. These coatings prevent food and bacteria from getting stuck in the grooves and crevices of the teeth. These tiny spots are where cavities are most likely to form, so applying sealants is a great way to keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong while they grow!
The process of applying sealants is simple and painless. Your child’s dentist at Burleson Pediatric Dentistry will clean and dry the tooth, then apply a thin layer of the sealant material to the tooth’s surface. This material will then harden and form a protective barrier against food and bacteria. Sealants can last for several years and can be easily reapplied if needed.
Fluoride
Another great way to prevent cavities in children is the use of fluoride. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel. When your child’s tooth enamel is strengthened, it makes it much more resistant to decay. Fluoride can be found in many sources, including toothpaste, mouthwash, and tap water.
Fluoride works by forming a protective layer on the surface of your teeth. This layer makes it more difficult for bacteria to stick to your teeth and cause decay. Fluoride also helps to remineralize your children’s teeth, meaning it helps to repair small areas of decay before they become bigger problems.
If you live in an area with fluoridated water, you and your children are already getting a daily dose of fluoride! But if you don’t, your pediatric dentist in Burleson can prescribe a fluoride supplement in the form of a tablet, rinse or varnish. Your pediatric dentist at Burleson Pediatric Dentistry can also apply a fluoride varnish directly to your teeth during a dental appointment. This is a quick and easy way to give your teeth a boost of fluoride protection.
Reinforce Good Dental Hygiene for Your Children
In addition to sealants and fluoride, there are a few other things you can do to help your children keep their teeth healthy and strong.
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Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
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Flossing daily to remove food and plaque from between your teeth
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Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and acidic foods
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Visiting your pediatric dentist at Burleson Pediatric Dentistry regularly for cleanings and checkups
If your child has a history of cavities, you may need to speak with your pediatric dentist in Burleson to take additional steps to prevent them. Your child’s dentist will have recommendations for you that may include more frequent cleanings or special fluoride treatment. Your child’s pediatric dentist is here to be your partner in oral health for your children.
Working like a team, you can set your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
While cavities can be a pesky problem for your children, there are many things you can do to prevent them. Using cavity prevention methods such as dental sealants, and fluoride treatments, and reinforcing a great dental hygiene routine are some of the best ways to protect your children’s teeth and keep them healthy. Don’t wait, talk to your child’s pediatric dentist in Burleson today about the steps you can take together to prevent cavities and keep a healthy, beautiful smile for life!