Three Ways To Help Kids Avoid Cavities

Children are susceptible to tooth decay, even babies and toddlers. We want to help kids avoid tooth decay and keep their smiles free of discomfort and infection. In today’s blog, your North Hollywood, CA, dentist talks about three different options we have to help lower the risk of tooth decay forming in little smiles!

Dental Cleanings

We recommend a dental cleaning for kids ages two and older every six months. The purpose is to remove the layers of plaque and tartar that can accumulate on the surfaces of the teeth with time. Over time, these layers can weaken enamel or cause tooth decay, inflame gum tissues to cause gingivitis, and increase the risk of bad breath and teeth stains. With a cleaning, we use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to remove all buildup from the surfaces of the teeth. We then polish the teeth to make it more difficult for these layers to accumulate on the surfaces of the smile in between visits. The process only takes a few minutes, and can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay. As a bonus, we can also examine the teeth to identify the risk of issues in the early stages, taking action before your children develop discomfort or risks losing the tooth.

Fluoride Treatments

During each checkup and cleaning visit, our team can also apply a special fluoride varnish to the teeth. Fluoride can strengthen the outer enamel and lower the risk of cavities. Application takes only a few seconds and kids just need to avoid food and drink for about 30 minutes as it sets. This is a great way to avoid tooth decay. We also recommend a fluoride toothpaste for kids, with children three and younger using only a rice-sized amount, and kids over the age of three using a pea-sized blot.

Dental Sealants

Our team also has a unique treatment that can reduce the risk of cavities for as long as ten years in some cases. Dental sealants are an acrylic layer that we add to the rear molars, the teeth children have trouble reaching when they brush and floss. As a result, the layer prevents food and drink particles from being stuck on or between these teeth, lowering the risk of cavities. The application takes seconds and they can stay in place for years, and even as they wear away gradually they tend to cling the longest to the more vulnerable portions of the teeth.

If you have any questions, contact our team today!

Schedule a Visit for Children’s Dentistry

We want to help kids of all ages in our community maintain good oral health and shining smiles. To schedule a visit for your next visit, give us a call at Modern Smiles in North Hollywood, CA at (818)763-9353.