Children need care both at their home and in our office to prevent the onset of tooth decay. Otherwise, a cavity could mean tooth sensitivity and toothaches, as well as an increased risk of infection and premature tooth loss! In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentists will explain what needs to be done to protect little smiles from decay. We’ll also look at two unique preventive treatments.
The Common Causes of Tooth Decay
How does a child develop a cavity? Like you, your child’s teeth are coated in a thin but powerful layer of tooth enamel. This material is the hardest substance in the human body, and protects the inner layers of dentin from bacteria. However, when poor oral hygiene (including improper or infrequent brushing or flossing) allows plaque buildup to form, this coats the teeth in plaque and tartar, weakening and eroding tooth enamel. The dentin is then exposed to harmful bacteria and allows a cavity to form. Other factors include consuming foods and beverages high in sugar, or a lack of six-month checkup and cleaning visits.
Removing Plaque Buildup
Brushing and flossing alone cannot remove plaque that has already formed. Which means you need to undergo a routine dental cleaning every six months so we can use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. The process only takes a few minutes, and not only lowers the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, but also fights bad breath and dental discoloration! Following the procedure, you should make sure your child brushing and flossing, as removing food particles does limit how much plaque forms in between dental cleaning visits.
Fluoride Treatments
Children also benefit from a procedure that strengthens the outer enamel. Fluoride naturally improves the strength of tooth enamel, so we can apply it in a varnish form during checkup visits. Applying this naturally-occurring only takes a few minutes, and helps protect your smile. Our team will then re-apply during each checkup and cleaning visit.
Dental Sealants
Our team also offers dental sealants. This acrylic coating covers the rear teeth, which are hard for kids to reach when they brush and floss each day. The sealants only take a short while to apply, and can last for between 5 and 10 years on average. They keep your child’s smile healthy and strong, and keep cavities at bay.
Does Your Child Need a Visit?
We want to help your kids better understand their smiles and take steps to keep their teeth healthy and strong. For more information on our approach to children’s dentistry, or to schedule a dental consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.