We want to help kids enjoy good oral health and a bright smile, which means actions to prevent issues like tooth decay. Fortunately, we have unique treatments to help protect kids from cavities. At your Wheaton, IL, dental office, we can employ treatments like fluoride and dental sealants to keep cavities at bay in little smiles!
The Causes of Tooth Decay
How does a child develop a cavity? The outside of the tooth is coated in a strong material, known as enamel, which protects sensitive inner structures from exposure to bacteria. But when a tooth is injured, or the enamel weakened by poor brushing and flossing habits and diets high in sugar, this causes erosion and exposes the dentin to bacteria, so cavities form. The decay will grow and spread throughout the tooth unless treated, which leads to eventual infection, as well as persistent sensitivity when kids eat or a toothache that doesn’t abate after a day or two. When your little ones complain about an aching tooth, bring him or her in for treatment right away.
Checkups and Cleanings
One way we help safeguard kids against cavities is with a checkup and cleaning. With a dental exam every six months, we can identify areas of weakened enamel early, often before your little one experiences pain or sensitivity. With a cleaning, we remove the harmful plaque and tartar buildup, the result of diets high in sugar and improper brushing and flossing, which can lower the risk of cavities. If we do discover tooth decay, then we can treat the issue in one visit with the placement of a dental filling, which is made from a lifelike and biocompatible material known as composite resin, which is metal free and safe for all ages.
Fluoride and Dental Sealants
Our team wants to help kids avoid cavities, and can offer treatments to do that in addition to our exam and cleanings. With fluoride, we apply a mineral known for strengthening enamel in a varnish form directly to the teeth. The process takes seconds, and kids just need to avoid food and drink for about a half hour. The fluoride can be applied during your child’s checkup and cleaning visits. With dental sealants, we coat the rear teeth in an acrylic layer, as children often have trouble reaching these teeth when brushing and flossing. The sealants prevent particles from being stuck on or between the teeth, lowering the risk of tooth decay for years to come.
If you have any questions, then please reach out to our team today!
Talk To Your Wheaton, IL Dentist About Children’s Dentistry
Our team wants to help kids enjoy good oral health and smiles that shine. If you would like to find out more about preventing tooth decay in your child’s smile, call Amber Dental in Wheaton, IL today at (630) 665-5555.