For children’s oral and overall health throughout adolescence and adulthood, it is crucial that they develop healthy oral habits at an early age.
As soon as a child’s baby teeth emerge, we recommend their first visit to the dentist. Bringing your child to the Dental Practice early on is a straightforward way to help them become accustomed to the environment and all its sights, sounds, and smells.
As part of our commitment to long-term dental health, we’re passionate about starting our “mini VIP’s” on the right foot. Early dental care visits reduce a child’s chances of developing anxiety around routine dental treatments such as fissure sealants and topical fluoride application.
In addition to encouraging children to care for their teeth from a young age, regularly visiting the dentist helps them understand the importance of keeping their teeth clean and establish a regular oral hygiene routine. We will also offer guidance on diet and lifestyle during your appointment to help reduce the likelihood of cavities and decay.
We offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere for the children. You’ll find our entire team of dental health professionals are kind, caring, and patient, and our treatment rooms are soothing and welcoming – aiming to make even the most nervous little ones feel at ease.
Fluoride Varnish
The fluoride varnish is applied to teeth at risk of caries (tooth decay). In areas that are difficult to brush, fluoride varnish is applied topically. The Department of Health recommends fluoride varnish application 2-4 times per year. Patients find this part of the exam to be quite tasty, which is why children love it so much!
Pit and Fissure Sealants
What are sealants?
These are a painless way of protecting your children’s teeth from decay. A sealant is a protective plastic coating, which is applied to the biting surfaces of the back teeth. The sealant forms a hard shield that keeps food and bacteria from getting into the tiny grooves in the teeth and causing decay.
Which teeth should be sealed?
Sealants are usually applied to the back teeth – the molars. These are the teeth that have deep grooves on their biting surfaces. Your dentist will advise which teeth should be sealed after your child has been examined. Some teeth naturally form with deep grooves that can be sealed, others with shallow ones which may not need sealing. Molars are usually sealed in children that have a high decay risk.
What is involved?
The process is quick and simple, taking only a few minutes per tooth. The tooth is prepared with a special solution and dried. The liquid sealant is then applied and allowed to set hard – usually by shining a blue light onto it.
Will my child feel it?
No, it is absolutely pain-free, and the teeth feel normal afterward.
How long do they last?
Sealants usually last for many years, but your dentist will check them at your check-ups. They can wear over time, and so the dentist may need to replace some of the sealants over time.
How do they work?
The sealant forms a smooth, even, protective layer, by covering all the little grooves and dips in the surface of the tooth. Deep grooves are more prone to decay.
When should this be done?
Sealants can be applied as soon as the permanent teeth are fully erupted.
Do my children still have to clean their teeth?
Yes. The smooth, sealed surface will now be much easier to keep clean and healthy with effective tooth brushing. Always using fluoride toothpaste will also help to protect your children’s teeth. Fissure sealants reduce tooth decay and the number of fillings your child might need.
