Preventive Dentistry: DENTAL HYGIENE

Check up Appointments

Our check up appointments encompass more than “just a cleaning.” We view each check up as an opportunity to provide you and your child the tools your family needs to remain cavity free. Take a look at the initial exam to see the types of services your child will receive at every check up appointment.

Dental Education

Although check up appointments are a critical component of your child’s dental care, we know that your child’s home care program and habits will more likely influence his or her ability to stay cavity-free. Therefore, we place a significant emphasis on education and help identify and eliminate potentially harmful habits. Please refer to our FAQ on how cavities develop and brushing tips and helpful hints for some of our educational favorites.

Fluoride Treatment

When the element fluoride is used in small amounts on a routine basis it helps to prevent tooth decay. It encourages “remineralization,” a strengthening of weak areas on the teeth. These spots are the beginning of cavity formation. Fluoride occurs naturally in water and in many different foods, as well as in dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, gels, varnish and supplements. Fluoride is effective when combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.

Sealants

Sealants protect the grooved and pitted surfaces of the teeth, especially the chewing surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Made of tooth colored plastic, sealants are applied to the teeth to help keep them cavity-free. The application of a sealant is quick and comfortable. It takes only one visit. The tooth is first cleaned. It is then conditioned and dried. The sealant is then flowed onto the grooves of the tooth and hardened with a special light. Your child will be able to eat right after the appointment.

Before Sealant
After Sealant

Mouth Guards

Athletic mouth guards can prevent serious dental injuries. We provide boil and bite mouth guards for children whose mouths are undergoing a lot of change (such as teeth falling out, etc) at no charge. We can construct custom mouth guards for teenagers that provide the best fit.

Night Guards

We make night guards for our patients who grind their teeth, have jaw clenching habits and TMJ sufferers. A night guard is a customized appliance. It is hard and durable, but a night guard protects the teeth from wear since it is softer than teeth. We need dental impressions to make a night guard and it takes very little time to fit the night guard into the mouth. There is no pain and discomfort either during or after the time.

Night Guards