In our last blog, we looked at how dental sealants help protect children from cavities by limiting the rear teeth’s exposure to stray food particles. Well, we have enough unique treatments help lower the risk of tooth decay in little smiles. In today’s blog, your Shirley, NY, pediatric dentist and orthodontist will discuss our fluoride treatments.
How Fluoride Makes Stronger Teeth
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral. Decades ago, it was discovered that areas with fluoride in their water had lower rates of tooth decay across all ages. Which is why in most communities in the country fluoride has been added to the drinking water in safe amounts, to help strengthen smiles of all ages. For this reason, dentists always recommend you brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste, as this helps strengthen the outer enamel. This can help adults and kids alike. Children three and younger should use a rice-sized blot of toothpaste, while kids over the the age of three need a pea-sized amount. But we also help by offering this an in-office during your regular checkup and cleaning visits.
Applying Treatments
The process only takes a few minutes and helps safeguard the teeth for months to come. We will apply the gel to the teeth with a swab, brush or a tray that is placed into the mouth. Once complete, your child needs to avoid food and drink for 30 minutes. That’s it! We can offer this at each checkup and cleaning visit, or every other one, depending on your child’s risk factors for tooth decay.
Brushing at Home
At home, be sure you and your family, from the youngest to the oldest, always brush in the morning and at night, for about two minutes each session. This helps fight issues like tooth decay and gum disease, and for greater protection you also need to floss every evening too. These actions, combined with regular six-month checkups and cleanings and better diets, means a lower risk of cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease, as well as bad breath and teeth stains. If you have any questions about these visits and how they help little smiles, or if you would like to schedule an appointment for your child, then contact our team today to learn more.
See Your Shirley, NY, Orthodontist and Pediatric Dentist
We’re ready to help keep your child’s smile strong and healthy. To learn more about fighting the impact of cavities, then contact Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry in Shirley, NY, by calling (631) 399-1600. A strong and healthy smile is possible for kids of all ages, and we also offer care for adults as well. We can provide better oral health for the entire family.
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