Young smiles need the same high-quality care as adults. While their teeth, bones, and facial structure are still growing, they are still susceptible to cavities, gum disease, and other similar oral health issues. Whether you’re still looking for a pediatric dentist or not, knowing what kind of services are offered to kids is important. Read on to discover five of the most common dental treatments your child might receive to keep their smile looking and feeling its best.
Dental Exam & Teeth Cleaning
Every six months, your child will need to see their pediatric dentist for a regular dental checkup and teeth cleaning. These visits are essential components of preventive care and allow the appropriate professionals to identify problems (i.e., decay, gum inflammation, bite misalignment, etc.) early on so that necessary treatment can be administered.
Also, with thorough teeth cleaning, your child can walk away with a plaque- and tartar-free smile.
Fluoride Treatment
When it is believed that your child may be at risk for cavities, you can expect them to be recommended for fluoride treatment. This additional application can be incorporated into their regular dental exam and is completely painless.
The fluoride protects against cavity-causing bacteria while also strengthening the enamel for stronger, healthier teeth.
Dental Sealants
If your child is older and has most of their permanent teeth, it may be in their best interest to receive dental sealants. Designed to shield back teeth from potential cavities, this clear coating can be applied quickly and last up to 10 years.
Dental sealants are ideal if your child still struggles to fully clean their molars and premolars. Since these teeth have small crevices and are exposed regularly to food particles because they are “chewing teeth,” sealants can provide better protection over the years.
Valuable Patient Education
Children need to learn how to take proper care of their oral health, which is why pediatric dentists often spend time during each appointment explaining how to properly brush, floss, and take care of one’s smile.
Your child will also learn about healthy eating habits, proper mouth protection, and which unhealthy habits they need to give up (i.e., biting their fingernails). This will set them up for success as they grow older.
Dental Fillings or Other Similar Restorations
Even if your child is diligent with their oral hygiene at home, and you make sure they see their pediatric dentist regularly, problems can still occur, resulting in cavities or possible dental damage.
This is why restorative care is often a common type of treatment children can receive. Whether it’s dental fillings or dental crowns, these customized restorations can be used to protect vulnerable teeth, minimize discomfort, and eliminate infection.
Although your child may not need all of these at the same time, there is a good chance that they’ll likely undergo a few of these treatments as they progress through childhood and adolescence. Finding a pediatric dentist who offers these types of treatments is vital to ensuring the health and future of your child’s smile.
About the Authors
At Sprout Dentistry for Kids in Allen, Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo are board-certified pediatric dentists and fathers. Offering an array of kid-friendly dental services, they are pleased to provide patients and their parents with a place where all their child’s oral healthcare needs can be met. If you are looking for trustworthy dentists you and your child can count on, visit our website or call (469) 663-0098.