While it is true that baby teeth will eventually fall out, that doesn’t mean they don’t require detailed examination and potentially treatment if a problem arises. At Saginaw Dental, we do everything possible not just to provide comprehensive children’s dentistry in Saginaw, but to create an environment that your child feels comfortable visiting. Establishing a positive relationship early is crucial to long-term oral health, and that’s exactly what you can expect when you visit our dental office. To get your family started, give our dental office a call!
Your child’s first visit does not typically entail much treatment, but rather a brief examination and the opportunity to speak with Dr. Renkuntla about important oral care habits. During this visit, you’ll get a chance to discuss at-home care, preventive treatments, diet, and products that will benefit your child’s daily oral care routine. We recommend that your child’s first visit occurs once their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday.
For some younger patients, practicing daily oral care can be tough. If we notice that your child is struggling with cavities or you want to take extra precautions for their oral development, we recommend that you consider dental sealants. This treatment utilizes composite resin to seal the most vulnerable areas of teeth away from bacteria. For example, the deep pits and cracks of molars are more susceptible to tooth decay than neighboring teeth, making them more likely to develop decay. Click below to learn more about dental sealants and how they work.
A dental sealant is a clear, biocompatible material that is painted onto the teeth. It creates a strong, protective barrier between the surface of the tooth and harmful plaque and bacteria that can result in cavities. It is recommended by the American Dental Association that children get dental sealants between the ages of 5 and 7 and again between the ages of 11 and 14 as their molars are coming in.
Getting a dental sealant takes a few minutes and is completed during your child’s checkup and cleaning. Once their teeth have been cleaned, they will be dried, the sealant is painted on the back molars. Next, a special light is used to harden it in place. Lastly, we will check to make sure that the bit is still comfortable and make any adjustments if necessary. Dental sealants can provide protection for up to 9 years!
Anyone who is prone to tooth decay on their back teeth can benefit from sealants. Children and teenagers between the ages of 6 and 14 are usually good candidates for this treatment because they are still learning the best ways to brush and floss thoroughly. Their new molars also have deeper grooves than their primary teeth did, putting them at higher risk of decay. They are also great for those who have mobility issues that make brushing through difficult. Dental sealants offer an extra layer of protection for those who could benefit from it.
Since baby teeth are an essential part of oral development, it’s important that we take the steps necessary to ensure they stay healthy until permanent teeth are ready to erupt. Fluoride works to keep teeth strong and healthy as they go through this process. After your child’s gentle cleaning, we’ll provide a brief fluoride treatment and send them on their way. Make sure that your tap water is fluoridated as well to ensure their tooth enamel is getting enough of this important mineral.
Does your child play a contact sport, such as football, hockey, basketball, or wrestling? If so, they need to be wearing a protective mouthguard as teeth can easily become chipped, cracked or even knocked out without the right gear. When you visit our dental office, you can receive a mouthguard that fits your child’s mouth exactly. Custom-made mouthguards always have superior comfort, protection, and longevity compared to store-bought solutions. If you have an active family, it’s a worthwhile investment, especially compared to expensive emergency dental treatments.