Oral Health Visits
During your child’s first visit to our office, we will have them take a mini-tour and introduce them to the staff so they can feel comfortable with their surroundings. We will review your child’s medical history and then follow-up with an examination that includes looking in the mouth, polishing and scaling, along with any necessary x-rays or ‘pictures’. We will go over hygiene instruction with your child. We may also discuss other medical issues with you at this time as well as treatment plans.
Check-ups for patients are recommended every six months. This visit will include all of the components of the initial visit. With these regular check-ups, we can track and evaluate your child’s mouth’s development.
Preventive Treatments
Flouride Treatment
Following an initial exam or check-up appointment, fluoride will be applied to your child’s teeth to help maintain the enamel in its strongest condition. Our practice uses a fluoride varnish which sticks to the teeth and is gradually absorbed into the enamel. The patient can eat or drink immediately following its application.
When fluoride is used in small amounts on a routine basis, it helps prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is found in city water, various foods, and dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, varnish, and supplements. It encourages remineralization (strengthening) of weak areas on the teeth. Fluoride is very effective when combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.
Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin protective coating that adheres to the surface of back teeth. Sealants keep cavities from forming and can prevent decay in the early stages of development.
The chewing surfaces of molars have grooves, making the vulnerable to decay. These grooves can be difficult to clean with brushing and flossing alone. The dental sealants provide protection by covering the affected area and creating a smooth outer surface of the tooth.
Sealants can last for a few years before they need to be reapplied. It is important to keep up with regular dental visits so the dentist can check the condition of the sealant and reapply as necessary.