As a parent, one of the best things you can do for your child’s health is to ensure they have a healthy smile. Preventative dental care is crucial from an early age and using tools like fluoride and dental sealants can make a big difference. Here’s how these treatments work to protect your child’s teeth.
Fluoride: The Cavity Fighter Champion
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens the teeth’s enamel, the hard outer layer of the teeth. It’s so effective that the American Dental Association (ADA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) all recommend its use in dental care. Here’s what fluoride does:
- Remineralization: Fluoride helps in remineralizing teeth, reversing early signs of tooth decay.
- Resistance: It makes the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth.
- Protection: For children, fluoride integrates into the development of permanent teeth, making it difficult for acids to demineralize the enamel.
Fluoride can be found in toothpaste, certain mouth rinses and even in water supplies in some areas. Dental visits often include fluoride treatment, especially for kids, as this provides an extra layer of defense against cavities.
Dental Sealants: Shielding the Grooves
Dental sealants are another fantastic preventative tool. They are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars), where most cavities in children are found. Here’s why sealants are beneficial:
- Physical Barrier: Sealants form a physical barrier that protects enamel from plaque and acids.
- Easy Application: The process is quick, and painless and can be done during a regular dental visit.
- Long-lasting: Once applied, sealants can protect teeth for up to 10 years with proper care.
Studies show that dental sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%. That’s a significant decrease in the potential for cavities and subsequent dental issues.
Call To Schedule
Integrating fluoride use and applying dental sealants are effective ways to protect your child’s teeth from decay and ensure they have a healthy, happy smile for years to come. To schedule your child’s visit with our Sugarbug Dental team, we invite you to contact us at a location near you!