We take pediatric dentistry very seriously, and want to help your kids maintain strong and healthy smiles, and obtain a better understanding of their oral health too. In today’s blog, your Rochester, MN, dentist is talking about pediatric dentistry, and explaining how we can help keep little smiles of all ages free of cavities and other concerns.
Keeping an Eye on Your Child’s Smile
As children grow, their smiles are always changing. To prevent serious concerns like misalignment, we need to be sure that primary teeth arrive and fall out on schedule, and that permanent ones have a clear path to eruption. Children are also at risk for tooth decay and even gingivitis, so we need to watch their smile for the earliest signs of trouble, so we can bring relief. Which is why a checkup every six months is so beneficial for kids of all ages, starting at around two. In these visits, we also help instill good oral hygiene habits, and reduce the risk of anxiety as kids become accustomed to seeing the dentist.
Removing Harmful Plaque
In the same exam visit, our team will conduct a dental cleaning. The procedure involves the use of an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to gently but thoroughly break up and remove plaque and tartar buildup. The buildup occurs when bacteria consume particles of sugar and starch, and creates a sticky layer that weakens enamel to make tooth decay more likely. The same layers are also linked to gingivitis, bad breath, and teeth stains. After we remove the plaque and tartar, we will polish the teeth for a brighter appearance, and a smoother surface that makes it more difficult for plaque and tartar to cling to the teeth.
Preventive Treatment Options
We could also discuss possible treatments to help lower the risk of future cavities. During each six-month appointment, we could apply a topical fluoride gel to the teeth. Doing so helps strengthen the outer enamel to make erosion and cavities less likely. We could also discuss dental sealants, a thin plastic coating we add to the rear teeth that prevents food particles from being trapped there, where kids often have a hard time reaching when brushing and flossing. They can last as long as ten years in some cases, lowering the risk of tooth decay.
If you have any questions, please reach out today!
TALK TO YOUR ROCHESTER, MN DENTIST ABOUT IMPROVING YOUR CHILD’S SMILE
Your child can learn good oral hygiene habits and enjoy a bright and beautiful smile. If you would like to find out more about children’s dentistry, or if you wish to book an appointment at our location, call Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
