The American Dental Association recommends that all patients schedule routine six-month check-up exams, especially for growing children. At Blue Bird Dentistry, we ensure that your child’s dental health is our top priority.
What to Expect During the Visit
At your visit, our dentist in Fredericksburg will screen your child’s mouth for tooth decay and gum disease. Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. During your child’s dental cleaning, we will gently remove any buildup of plaque or tartar to help prevent tooth decay.
Oral Hygiene Education
During this visit, our team will spend time discussing proper brushing techniques and oral hygiene with your child. Depending on your child’s age, we may also teach them about the correct use of floss and mouthwash. Our team members are friendly, patient, and great with kids, and they will answer every question to ensure your child understands the importance of good oral care.
Fluoride Treatments
We may recommend applying fluoride to your child’s teeth as part of their treatment. Topical fluoride is used to strengthen enamel and make teeth more resistant to tooth decay, providing an extra layer of protection.
Sealants for Cavity Prevention
Sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities on your child’s molars and premolars, which are the most susceptible due to their grooves. Typically, children receive sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in, protecting them through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
The Sealant Application Process
The process of applying sealants is easy and fast. The steps are as follows:
- Your child’s teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
- The teeth are dried.
- A liquid solution is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- The solution is cured using a special curing light.
Sealants act as a barrier, protecting the enamel from plaque and acids. They may last for several years before reapplication is needed. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
Sealants are not a substitute for brushing your teeth. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and keep up with professional dental cleanings. Also, sealants do not protect between the teeth, so it is essential to continue to floss daily.
Healthy Smiles Beyond the Office
Without proper dental care, children are susceptible to oral decay. Healthy smiles should not stop at our dental office. Our experienced and caring team will educate you and your child on how to make good food choices and how to properly brush and floss at home.
Our expert dentist in Fredericksburg and knowledgeable team have the experience and qualifications to care for your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth throughout various stages of childhood. For more information or to request an appointment, contact Blue Bird Dentistry today.