Routine Cleanings, Exams, & X-rays
The Importance of Preventive Care
Routine appointments at our office are the cornerstone of pediatric preventive dentistry. At each appointment, Dr. Richard and our team will clean and polish your child’s teeth, and look for any signs of common oral health and developmental issues.
Seeing Dr. Richard every six months ensures that he can track your child’s dental health as they grow and mature, and recommend treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments to fight back against cavities.
In addition, x-rays may be taken, if necessary. X-rays provide us with additional insights into your child’s oral health and development, and allow Dr. Richard to spot oral health issues that may be hidden below the surface or in between the teeth.
Keeping Little Smiles Healthy
The Benefits of Preventive Care for Kids
Avoid Issues
Preventive treatment from a dentist prevents cavities, gum disease, and related complications, keeping your child’s mouth strong and healthy.
Save Time & Money
By getting regular preventive care like dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and routine teeth cleanings, you can avoid the need for more expensive, complex, invasive dental treatments.
Peace of Mind
Preventive care gives reassurance, knowing that your child’s mouth will remain healthy as they grow and mature over the years.
Dental Sealants
Helping to Prevent Cavities
If your child is susceptible to cavities, dental sealants may be recommended to prevent cavities from forming in their rear teeth.
This treatment can be done as part of any routine visit at our office. A thin layer of plastic resin will be applied to each of your child’s molars and premolars. Typically, only the rear teeth are treated, as they are much more vulnerable to cavities.
This resin is hardened using a LED curing light, creating a transparent barrier on top of your child’s tooth enamel that prevents the direct contact of food particles, bacteria, and acid.
This treatment can halt the formation of cavities for up to 10 years.
Silver Diamine Fluoride
The Best Alternative to Dental Fillings
Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) is a great alternative to dental fillings for baby teeth. SDF uses a special blend of fluoride, silver, ammonia, and water, which is applied to a cavity in a liquid form. This liquid destroys the bacteria that cause the cavity and halts the progression of the cavity. A fluoride varnish is applied to the area, sealing it and preventing future damage.
This treatment is ideal for baby teeth because it stops the cavity from getting worse, and keeps the tooth healthy until it falls out naturally. However, it’s not recommended for permanent teeth, since it will stain the treated area permanently.
It may also not be a good option for very deep cavities. An alternative treatment like a filling or dental crown may be required in serious cases of tooth decay.