Sealants And Fluoride Treatments
Preventative Care For Small Smiles
As your family dentist, our team and dentists are here to keep your child’s teeth healthy. A large part of that is preventative dental care, which takes place both at our office and at home. Every six months at your child’s regular dental checkup and cleaning, we may recommend dental sealants and fluoride treatments as needed to help support a healthy smile. Together, dental sealants and fluoride treatments can help keep their teeth look, feel and function great.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin coatings that help protect your child’s teeth from bacteria that can turn into a cavity. They are usually applied to the premolars and molars, or the back teeth that chew food and where food particles can easily settle. Because children are especially prone to cavities, dental sealants are a great way to safeguard the teeth from decay.
At What Age Are They Applied?
Typically, we recommend dental sealants as soon as your child’s permanent molars come in. This is because children are especially susceptible to cavities, especially from the ages of 6 to about 14. Occasionally, they can help a baby tooth for children who are prone to cavities or if there is a tooth or teeth that has particularly deep grooves.
Dental Sealant Treatment In Metro Richmond, VA
If we think your child can benefit from dental sealants and fluoride treatments, the great news is that both procedures are quick and non-invasive. We understand how busy our patients are and will never keep your child in the dental chair longer than they need to be. To place a dental sealant, Dr. Smith or Dr. Bittler will:
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water that can help prevent or slow down cavities by strengthening tooth enamel, or the outer layer of the tooth. Our drinking water contains fluoride, but we recommend fluoride treatments as regular preventative dental care as well. The American Dental Association (ADA) states that fluoride is completely safe when used in moderation.
How Is It Applied?
Fluoride treatments are typically applied as a varnish during your child’s dental appointment. We will apply it onto the surfaces of the teeth with a small brush. As soon as it comes in contact with your child’s saliva, it will harden on the teeth. It only takes a few minutes and is a completely painless treatment!
Dental Sealants And Fluoride Treatments Aftercare
After receiving dental sealants and fluoride treatments, your child can eat and drink as normal. However, avoid feeding them hot or cold foods that may feel too sensitive on the teeth. Their dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions for you to follow, including when they should brush or floss next.
Preventative Care Beyond Dental Sealants And Fluoride Treatments
Dental sealants and fluoride treatments cannot completely stop tooth decay on their own. However, when combined with other oral hygiene practices such as consistent, twice a day toothbrushing, daily flossing, visiting our dentists for regular appointments and eating a balanced, healthy diet, they can act as another barrier. To learn more about preventing cavities, check out our education and handouts page.
Be A Champion For Your Child’s Dental Health
At Magnolia Family Dental, we nourish young smiles for a lifetime. Through expert preventative dental care with dental sealants and fluoride treatments, we will help your child’s smile shine inside and out. To request your family’s appointment or to learn more about dental sealants and fluoride treatments, request an appointment online or call (804) 744-9051.
Rooted In Family, Focused On Smiles
At Magnolia Family Dental in Midlothian, VA, you’re more than a patient—you’re family. From your very first visit, we take the time to get to know you, understand your needs and provide personalized, stress-free care you can trust. Request an appointment today and experience dentistry that feels genuinely personal.
One-Of-A-Kind Smiles In Midlothian, VA