Prevention
Dental VisitsRegular dental visits are crucial to maintaining a healthy smile. During the dental visit, Dr. Dunne examines the child's mouth for tooth decay and growth or development conditions that may pose a problem in the future. How often should your child come see us? Children's needs differ, and Dr. Dunne, with your help, can come up with the best schedule of visits that suits your child's needs. The frequency of dental visits will partly depend on your child's eating habits; how clean the teeth are kept; past treatment needs; whether your child is taking a fluoride supplement; and other factors that can affect your child's susceptibility to dental diseases. Professional dental services, such as regular cleanings, fluoride treatments and the application of sealants that prevent tooth decay, can save money and reduce the need for further dental treatment. Set a good example for your child by brushing your own teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. Make brushing time family time! Fluoride Fluoride is a natural mineral that hardens and protects teeth by neutralizing the acid that causes decay. Several decades ago, scientists found that adding fluoride to drinking water significantly decreased the number of cavities in children and adolescents. Most people get fluoride from the tap water they drink, but here in Lane County, that is not the case. There is no fluoride in our water supply so it is extremely important that we make sure we are receiving a fluoride supplement, especially in the right dosages. Fluoride is inexpensive, safe and effective. You should consult with Dr. Dunne and your pediatrician to monitor the fluoride intake of children younger than six years. The first six years of life are an important period for tooth development. Overuse of fluoride during this period can result in a condition that may appear as white lines or spots on the teeth. Monitoring fluoride sources by parents can reduce the incidence of white spots while preventing early tooth decay.
We offer fluoride foam treatment as well as fluoride varnish. Dental treatments with fluoride can help prevent tooth decay and even help your teeth rebuild areas of decay in both children and adults. Fluoride also reduces the amount of plaque bacteria in your mouth, which also lessens the chance of tooth decay. In children, fluoride works by hardening the enamel portion of teeth, reducing the risk of decay. For most children, fluoride can be applied beginning at age three as part of a regular dental checkup We are excited to offer a new product that has become available in our office for at home fluoride treatment. It is called MI Paste. MI Paste fights demineralization while improving saliva flow, boosting fluoride uptake and soothing sensitive surfaces. The first professional product to contain RECALDENT ™ (CPP-ACP), a special milk-derived protein, MI Paste:
Mouthguards When a child participates in sporting and recreational activities, injuries can occur. Mouthguards are an important piece of protective face gear. You've probably seen mouthguards used in contact sports, such as hockey, football or boxing. Coaches and team members know that mouthguards cushion blows that would otherwise cause broken teeth, injuries to the lips and face and sometimes even jaw fractures. Non-contact sports such as soccer, volleyball, and gymnastics and leisure activities such a bicycling, roller skating and skateboarding also place a child at risk for dental injuries. If you child participates in any of these activities, talk to us about custom-fitted and store-purchased mouthguards. Dental Sealants A sealant is a material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth (premolars and molars), and sometimes to deep pits and grooves of front teeth, where decay occurs most often. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the decay-prone areas of the teeth from accumulating plaque that results in acid attacks and tooth decay. Sealing a tooth is fast and there is virtually no discomfort. Dr. Dunne conditions the chewing surfaces to help the sealant adhere to the tooth and then applies the sealant to the tooth enamel. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last several years before reapplication is needed. Both primary and permanent teeth can benefit from sealants. Talk with Dr. Dunne if sealants will help your child. |