Children are often susceptible to tooth decay. Subsequently, one main focus kid-friendly dentists have is the prevention of tooth decay by encouraging good oral hygiene practices at home and offering preventive procedures to children in the office. This can help children avoid the need for more extensive treatments such as cavity fillings.
The most notable preventive procedure options for children include teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. This is in addition to good oral hygiene practices at home and keeping a consistent brushing and flossing schedule. The following is a review of why tooth decay occurs and how a kid-friendly dentist can help with prevention.
Tooth decay, also known as a dental cavity, occurs when the enamel starts to weaken and erode. The enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth and the part that is visible to others. Enamel is incredibly strong, but it is vulnerable to acidic attacks when bacteria combine with other particles (i.e. sugar).
Teeth cleanings are one of the most common procedures in dentistry. Everyone should receive regular teeth cleanings throughout their entire life, from childhood to late adulthood. This is performed to remove plaque and tartar build-up on teeth, which subsequently reduces the risk of cavity development. Parents are encouraged to bring their child to a kid-friendly dentist's office once every four to six months for a routine dental cleaning.
Fluoride is teeth enamel’s best friend. It strengthens the enamel and helps the tooth defend itself from acidic attacks that can lead to decay. If enamel appears to be weakened, then the kid-friendly dentist may recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen the enamel and prevent erosion. This typically comes in the form of liquid treatment in the dental office or as a mouthwash that the child uses each night.
Dental sealants are perhaps the best way to prevent cavities from forming on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They are coatings (typically made of plastic) that are placed over the chewing surface of the tooth. This is a preventive form of treatment to ensure tooth decay does not develop. The chewing surface of teeth is often the most vulnerable to tooth decay, and adding a coating of protection with dental sealants is incredibly useful.
The best way to prevent tooth decay long-term is through good oral hygiene. This should include a consistent oral care routine that involves brushing two or three times a day, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash once each night. This helps enamel remain strong and reduces a build-up of plaque and tartar on teeth.
If a child has not received a dental cleaning for more than six months, then we encourage parents to bring them in for a visit. We offer a friendly staff and a welcoming office environment for children of all ages to help them remain comfortable and feeling in control during each dental visit with our kid-friendly dentist.
Are you considering a kid-friendly dentist in the Forest Hills area? Get more information at https://metrosmiles.com.
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