Summer could mean trouble for little smiles, as kids tend to enjoy snacking and sugary treats more than usual. This could be a recipe for a cavity! Which is why your Round Rock, TX, pediatric dentist offers unique preventive treatments to lower the risk of cavities, including fluoride gel and even dental sealants.

Cavities and Little Smiles

When kids enjoy too many foods and drinks high in sugar, this leaves behind particles on and between the teeth. As bacteria break down these particles this elevates oral acidity levels and coats the teeth in plaque and tartar. The buildup could then weaken outer enamel and erode it, allowing tooth decay to form as bacteria reach the inner layers of dentin. During summer break, kids often become lax in their oral health habits and tend to snack a lot more. As a result, tooth sensitivity and toothaches could develop as the teeth become decayed!

Fluoride Gel

During each checkup visit, our team will apply a fluoride gel to the teeth. Fluoride is a mineral that develops naturally and has been shown to strengthen the outer layer of tooth enamel. A stronger protective layer means a reduced risk of cavities and infection. The application process takes only a few minutes, and could help safeguard little smiles. Speaking of fluoride, children three years of age and younger should be using a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste, while kids over that age need a pea-sized amount. Kids also benefit from drinking tap water with this mineral, as again it helps make the outer enamel stronger!

Dental Sealants

We also have a preventive treatment we can apply in one visit, and that could last for up to ten years in some cases! Dental sealants are a unique plastic coating that we add to the rear molars, the ones kids often have a difficult time reaching when they brush and floss. This limited dexterity means a greater risk of cavities in this portion of the mouth. But the sealants prevent food particles from becoming stuck on or between these teeth. The layer stays in place for up to ten years, and even as it wears away gradually, it adheres to the more vulnerable parts of the teeth the longest.

If you have any questions about how we protect little smiles from issues like tooth decay, or if you want to schedule your child to receive these treatment options, then contact our team today.

Talk to Your Round Rock, TX Dentist’s Office Today

Our team would love to help kids avoid painful cavities with preventive treatments. If you have questions about preventing cavities in your child’s smile, or if you wish to set up an appointment, you can reach Pediatric Dentistry Of Round Rock by calling 512-733-5311.