Most moms and dads want their kids to have good dental health. They make sure their child brushes their teeth, limit candy and sugary drinks, and make sure they get enough calcium and Vitamin D. And yet, we still see tooth decay at Designer Smiles in Fargo.
Parents should be aware that there are four additional weapons for preventing cavities in young kids and teenagers.
- Sealants
- Fluoride Supplements
- Oral Rinses
- Professional dental cleanings
The first children to benefit from dental sealants are in their fifties and sixties now. Since then, dental sealants have proven to be effective at minimizing pit and fissure cavities.
Resin dental sealants are applied in our office. The material bonds to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, protecting the pits and fissures from decay.
Fluoride supplements help strengthen still-forming teeth before they come in. Note that if you have fluoridated water, your pediatric dentist may advise against taking additional fluoride in supplement form.
If your child is taking fluoride supplements, is an oral rinse redundant? Actually, no. Fluoride supplements help strengthen teeth that are still forming, but a fluoride rinse helps teeth that have already come in. Make sure you pick one specifically developed for children. Products labeled as a mouthwash may not contain fluoride. And they probably contain alcohol.
Oral rinses work best when children and teenagers swish after they brush and floss at night. The rinse should be the last substance to make contact with teeth before bed. This helps teeth re-mineralize during sleep.
Dental cleanings remove plaque that can’t be brushed away. Kids who receive twice-a-year teeth cleanings are less likely to experience decay, infection, or gum disease.
At The Dental Design Center in Fargo, the dental health of our patients is important to us. We offer general and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule your next appointment with us today.
Contact Designer Smiles:
701-298-9400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3525 25th St S
Fargo, North Dakota
58104
