Preventive Dental Treatments for Tiny Smiles

When it comes to children's dental health, prevention is the most important treatment of all. Establishing good habits and using modern preventive treatments early can protect your child's teeth from decay and set them on a path to a lifetime of excellent oral health. Two of the most effective preventive measures are fluoride applications and fissure sealants.

The Power of Fluoride

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a critical role in strengthening teeth and preventing cavities.

• How it Works: Fluoride integrates into the tooth's enamel structure, making it more resistant to the acid attacks from bacteria and sugars in the mouth. It can even reverse the earliest stages of tooth decay (demineralization).
• Professional Fluoride Application: At your child's check-up, we apply a concentrated fluoride varnish or gel directly to their teeth. This procedure is quick, painless, and provides a significant boost in cavity protection that lasts for several months.

Protecting Chewing Surfaces with Fissure Sealants

The chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) have natural pits and grooves called fissures. These areas are very difficult to clean with a toothbrush and are where most cavities in children occur.

• What are Sealants? A fissure sealant is a thin, protective plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. It flows into the fissures and hardens, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that 'seals out' food and bacteria.
• The Procedure: Applying sealants is a simple and painless process. The tooth is cleaned, a special gel is applied to prepare the surface, and then the sealant material is painted on and hardened with a special light. It takes only a few minutes per tooth.

The Importance of Early Intervention

We recommend applying sealants to a child's permanent molars as soon as they erupt, typically between the ages of 6 and 12. Combined with regular fluoride treatments, professional cleanings, and good home care, these preventive measures provide the most effective defense against cavities for your child. Explore our Pediatric Dentistry services for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is fluoride safe for my child?
A: Yes. When applied professionally by a dentist in the correct dosage, fluoride is a safe and one of the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay in children. The amount used in a dental office is carefully controlled.

Q: How long do sealants last?
A: Fissure sealants can last for several years. Your dentist will check them at each regular check-up and reapply them if they have worn down.