Preventative dentistry for children is equally as essential as preventative dentistry for adults. Many parents, however, make the mistake of believing that their child’s teeth are in perfect condition just because he or she is young. 

Children, like adults, have oral health problems. Children are more prone to cavities since they love to consume sweets, drink juice, and indulge in other sugary treats.

Here are some of the most essential preventive dental procedures for children: 

1. Dental Sealants:

Dental sealants are a transparent, plastic-like substance that a dentist may easily apply to teeth. Dental sealants adhere to the chewing surfaces of teeth, preventing cavities from developing and spreading. When a patient has very deep ridges along the chewing surfaces of his or her teeth, the dentist will generally apply a dental sealant to the molars. The sealant will not remain in place if the ridges are not deep enough.

If the sealant gets loose and collects plaque, the likelihood of cavities increases. Only two minutes are needed per tooth for the sealant to harden. After hardening, the youngster may eat without having the food come into touch with the surface of the teeth. This effective barrier reduces the likelihood of cavities in children.

2. Fluoride treatments are underutilized preventative dentistry treatments for children:

The administration of fluoride to teeth strengthens them. Fluoride strengthens enamel, making it easier to fight acid and bacteria that cause decay. Strong teeth are far less susceptible to decay.

3. Cleaning of teeth:

Your child’s teeth should be cleaned at least twice a year. This cleaning is required to remove plaque and tartar. It is difficult to eliminate plaque while flossing and brushing at home on one’s own, especially throughout childhood. Plaque is likely to accumulate between your child’s teeth. Only the kids dentist’s specialized instruments can remove this plaque and prevent cavities from forming.

4. Space Maintainers:

Space maintainers are specialist dental appliances made of metal or plastic. These retainers are completely customizable to your child’s mouth. Space keepers are little and perfectly comfy. Your youngster will become accustomed to his or her space maintainer in a matter of days or less. When a tooth falls out, the space maintainer maintains the empty space open. 

It stabilizes the existing teeth, preventing movement until permanent teeth erupt. If you are apprehensive to have a space maintainer placed by a kids dentist, remember that this procedure is less expensive and more efficient than attempting to shift teeth back to their normal locations with orthodontic therapy.

5. Mouth Guards:

Most kids dentists advise children to use mouth guards. These protective devices can be custom-made at the dentist’s office to fit your child’s unique mouth shape. These guards are used during sports to protect the teeth and gums from direct contact.

Request a dental check-up for your child for preventative dental care in Spanaway, WA at Spanaway Children’s Dentistry.