Preventing Decay  

Parents should take their children to the pediatric dentist every six months for check-ups,
beginning with the eruption of the first tooth (around 1 year of age).  Then, the dentist can
recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to
supervise and teach to their children.  Of course a balanced healthy diet limiting sugary snacks
and drinks will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits. 

According to national estimates, 78% of children in the United States have experienced dental decay by the age of 17 years.  As much as 90% of decay occurs in pits and fissures in school-age children.  The teeth at highest risk are the permanent first and second molars where fluoride has its least preventive effect on the pits and fissures. These are also the teeth where food and plaque traps in the deep grooves of the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

By forming a thin covering over the pits and fissures of back teeth (molars and premolars), sealants keep out plaque and food, thus decreasing the risk of decay.  The covering is only over the biting surface of the tooth, so areas on the side and between teeth cannot be coated with the sealant.  For this reason, good oral hygiene, flossing and a good diet are still very important in preventing decay next to these sealants or in areas unable to be covered.

Following the placement of sealants, your child should refrain from eating ice or hard candy.  This tends to fracture the sealant.  The American Dental Association recognizes that sealants can play an important role in the prevention of tooth decay.  When properly applied and maintained, they can successfully protect the chewing surfaces of your child's teeth. 

Research has shown fluoride to be useful in the prevention and control of dental decay. Daily fluoride exposure through water supplies or supplementation and monitored use of fluoride toothpaste (after the child is able to spit) can be effective in preventing decay.  Clinical studies also show that professionally applied topical fluoride treatments (performed by the dentist or hygienist) are also beneficial to the child. Children at high risk of developing decay (for example, children with orthodontic appliances, with reduced salivary function) may need to apply prescribed fluoride at home. When your child visits our office for an exam, we will evaluate his or her risk level for developing decay and determine if they would benefit from additional fluoride. 

Preventing Injuries to the Mouth
A properly fitted soft mouth guard can protect your child’s teeth, cheeks, lips, gums, and smile. Many experts recommend that a mouth guard be worn for any recreational activity that poses a risk of injury to the mouth. Sports in which a mouth guard should be worn include (but not limited to): basketball, football, baseball, soccer, softball, wrestling, martial arts, hockey, volleyball, skateboarding, lacrosse, boxing, and extreme sports.

There are 3 types of mouth guards: 1) ready-made, or stock, mouth guard; 2) mouth-formed ‘boil-and-bite’ mouth guard; and 3) custom-made mouth guard made by the dentist. If your child doesn’t have all of their permanent teeth then a ‘boil-and-bite’ mouth guard should be sufficient.  The most effective mouth guard should be resilient, tear-resistant, and comfortable. It should fit properly, be easy to clean, and not restrict speech or breathing.