Children need to see the dentist for regular visits, just like you do. Which means checkups and cleanings, as well as our unique preventive care for kids, help protect little smiles from cavities, gingivitis, and more. In today’s blog, your Austin, MN, dentists will discuss our approach to pediatric dentistry.
Preventing Cavities
First, we know that children have a high risk of developing cavities, which is why we have preventive treatments designed to strengthen the smile and lower the risk of tooth decay. With fluoride treatments for example, during the checkup visit we will apply a special varnish to the teeth. Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, has been shown to help prevent cavities in smiles of all ages. In fact, that’s why so many communities have fluoride in the drinking water!
We also have dental sealants. We dry the back teeth and apply a plastic coating. The acrylic layer prevents food from becoming stuck between the teeth hardest to reach for kids when they brush and floss. Since food doesn’t become trapped there, bacteria cannot break it down and the rate of decay drops. These sealants stay in place for years at a time, between 5 and 10 on average. If needed, we can always re-apply. They will wear away naturally with time.
Protective Mouthguards
When children play sports, the risk of a chipped or knocked-out tooth is quite high. Tao avoid the need for an emergency visit, and to protect them from damage, we suggest a mouthguard. With a custom-made option, we create one designed for your child’s smile, offering a greater level of protection than typical boil-and-bite options.
Checkup Visits
We also provide checkups and cleanings every six months. A checkup means we can watch the smile for signs of trouble, addressing issues like cavities, gingivitis, or misalignment in the early stages. We also clean the teeth, removing the plaque and tartar that could otherwise cause cavities and periodontal issues with time. These visits also offer a chance for us to help your kids better understand their oral health, and the importance of proper care each day from home. Studies also show that routine visits prevent dental anxiety, and make kids more likely to continue seeing the dentist in adulthood as well. If you have any questions about our approach to children’s dentistry, or if you would like to schedule a visit for your little one, then contact our team today.
Schedule a Visit for Your Child Soon
Our team is ready to help your children maintain a healthy smile and avoid issues like tooth decay. Be sure to contact Potach and Mitchel Dental in Austin, MN, today at 507-437-6312. Our team understands how to ensure kids enjoy their time in the office, and obtain stronger smiles.
