It is incredibly important to protect and maintain your child’s smile. While they are mostly responsible for taking care of their teeth, there are still ways that you can help bolster and support their efforts. Outside of ensuring they brush and floss regularly, you can bring them to the dentist for not only checkups but also for sealants and fluoride treatments. In today’s blog, your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist discusses these procedures and the ways they can help your little ones. 

Understanding Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are thin pieces of biocompatible film that go over your kid’s back teeth. We apply them in this location because this is where the majority of chewing is done and where food particles are most likely to become stuck. When your child comes in for the procedure, we will apply a BPA-free acrylic that serves as a protective barrier against bacteria. Once they have been applied and have hardened, these sealants serve as a layer that prevents particles from making direct contact with your child’s teeth. This helps prevent the presence of harmful bacteria, which then minimizes the risk of tooth decay. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, sealants can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80%. With such a decrease in the likelihood of decay, your child will be set up for having the healthiest possible smile as they grow up.

Fluoride Treatment Information

In addition to dental sealants, fluoride treatments are another helpful procedure to help protect your child’s teeth. It strengthens the enamel of their teeth, making them stronger and more resilient to decay. Enamel is the outermost protective layer of teeth, and it is made up almost entirely of minerals. While it is one of the strongest substances our bodies produce, it can still weaken over time. Fluoride treatment helps the enamel stay strong, which can limit the chance of decay developing. When your kid can avoid decay in the first place, they will not have to undergo more intrusive procedures like receiving a dental filling or a root canal. Furthermore, it is also important to bring your child in for regular exams and cleanings at least twice a year. This way, we can keep track of their oral health and address any issues as they develop. This is also beneficial because bringing them in at a young age will make them more comfortable with visiting the dentist.

Contact Us To Learn More About Protecting Your Child’s Smile.

If you have any questions about these treatments or would like to schedule an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can reach out to your Round Rock, TX, dentist, Dr. Thames, by calling 512-733-5311. We look forward to hearing from you.