It is essential for your child to develop healthy dental habits at a young age. This way, they will have a good foundation for maintaining a great smile for many years to come. It is important for them to be comfortable visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup as well as knowing how to properly brush and floss their teeth. In addition to helping them develop good habits, it is also important to help ensure their teeth are as strong and healthy as possible. Dental sealants and fluoride treatment are fantastic tools that can help accomplish these goals. In today’s blog, your Auburn Hills, MI dentist discusses both of these treatments and describes how they can help.
Understand Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin pieces of biocompatible film that are made from BPA-free acrylic. They are painted onto your child’s teeth — typically the molars. They add a layer of protection to these back teeth and are placed there because it is where the majority of chewing is done. Additionally, it can be more difficult for younger children to brush back there. Once the sealant has been applied, it serves as a barrier between teeth and food particles. This prevents bacteria from settling into their teeth, which ultimately lowers the risk of tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, sealants can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80%. With this in mind, this preventative tool is a simple method for providing effective protection.
Fluoride Treatment Strengthens Teeth
It is also important to help strengthen the enamel of your child’s teeth. This is the outermost layer of your teeth and is almost entirely comprised of minerals. It is very protective, but it can grow weak. This ultimately allows cavities and decay to develop. Fluoride treatments help strengthen the enamel which helps prevent cavities before they can grow. It is preferable to prevent them rather than treat them after the fact with a dental filling.
Regular Checkups Are Important
In addition to these helpful treatments, it is also extremely important to regularly bring your child in for checkups and cleanings every six months. This allows us to professionally clean their teeth and inspect their mouths. When we examine their smiles, we are able to make sure everything looks healthy and address any potential issues before they develop. We can also help teach them the most effective brushing techniques, so they can take care of their own smiles at home.
Contact Us To Schedule An Appointment For Your Child
We are here to help your child maintain the healthiest possible smile. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us today. You can schedule an appointment with Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI by calling 248-852-1820.
