At KidzVil Pediatric Dentistry, we’re dedicated to preventing tooth decay before it starts, and fluoride treatments and dental sealants are two of the most effective tools we have for doing exactly that.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride works well to strengthen children’s teeth and has been shown to help prevent tooth decay in people of all ages. For this reason, the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Medical Association all agree that topical fluoride is an important part of good oral health.
You may be wondering whether your child actually needs fluoride treatments. In many communities, tap water is already enhanced with fluoride, so additional treatments may not be necessary. However, if your household water isn’t fluoridated, your child may benefit from regular treatments. A fluoride treatment may also be recommended if your child shows signs like receding gums, wears braces, or takes medication that causes dry mouth, since these situations can raise the risk of decay.
Fluoride treatments are quick and painless, and we typically complete them during your child’s routine dental exam and cleaning. Your child’s dentist will apply a gel, foam, or varnish directly to the teeth, and the whole process takes just a few minutes. For most kids, treatment works best when done one to four times a year.
In addition to professional fluoride treatments, the American Dental Association recommends drinking fluoridated water and brushing daily with a fluoride toothpaste at home to keep your child’s enamel strong between visits.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are another simple, effective way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, or molars, where deep grooves make it easy for food and bacteria to get trapped and hard to clean with a toothbrush alone.
Applying a sealant is fast and comfortable. We clean and dry the tooth, apply the sealant material, and use a special light to harden it in place. Once set, sealants create a smooth, protective barrier that can prevent decay for several years with proper care. Sealants are usually recommended as soon as a child’s permanent molars come in, typically around ages 6 and 12, though we evaluate each child individually to determine if they’re a good candidate.
Fluoride treatments and sealants work well together as part of a complete prevention plan, alongside good brushing habits at home and regular visits for exams and cleanings. If your child ever does develop a cavity despite these precautions, we also offer tooth-colored fillings to restore the tooth naturally.
If you have any questions about fluoride, sealants, or your child’s dental health, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (561) 845-7374.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need fluoride treatments?
It depends on factors like whether your household water is fluoridated, your child’s cavity risk, and whether they wear braces or take medication that causes dry mouth. We can help determine what’s best during a routine visit.
How often should my child get a fluoride treatment?
Most children benefit from fluoride treatment one to four times a year, typically alongside their regular dental exam and cleaning.
Are fluoride treatments safe for children?
Yes. Fluoride treatments are safe, quick, and painless, and are recommended by the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Medical Association.
What are dental sealants and how do they work?
Sealants are a thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars to seal out food and bacteria from the deep grooves where cavities commonly form.
At what age should my child get sealants?
Sealants are typically recommended as soon as permanent molars erupt, usually around ages 6 and 12, though we evaluate each child individually.
How long do dental sealants last?
With proper care, sealants can protect teeth from decay for several years. We check them at routine visits and can reapply them if needed.
Can my child get fluoride treatments and sealants at the same visit?
Yes, both fluoride treatment and sealant application can typically be completed during the same routine dental visit.