Preventive dental care is one of the best ways to protect your child’s smile as they grow. At San Marcos Pediatric Dentistry, we offer two simple, effective preventive treatments to reduce the risk of cavities: dental sealants and fluoride treatments.
These options are commonly recommended for children because they help strengthen teeth and protect the areas where cavities most often develop.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants play a key role in preventive pediatric dentistry. If Dr. Shafiei determines your child is a good candidate for sealants, a thin protective coating will be applied directly to the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
Sealants are especially effective at preventing decay in the deep grooves and crevices of the back teeth, where food particles and plaque can collect more easily. By sealing these areas, the sealant creates a protective barrier that helps shield the enamel from plaque and cavities.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Helps prevent cavities on chewing surfaces
- Seals grooves and crevices where decay often starts
- Protects tooth enamel from plaque buildup
How Long Does It Take?
The application process is quick and simple, usually taking only a few minutes per tooth. Even though sealants are easy to apply, they are durable and designed to withstand normal chewing forces. In most cases, sealants can protect teeth for years, though they may eventually need to be reapplied.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride treatments are another cornerstone of preventive dental care. Fluoride helps support the teeth by remineralizing enamel, making it more resistant to decay and better able to handle acidic attacks that can lead to cavities.
Fluoride treatments are fast and easy and are often provided at the end of a routine cleaning or checkup appointment.
Benefits of Fluoride Treatments
- Strengthens enamel
- Supports remineralization
- Helps improve resistance to decay
Ready to Protect Your Child’s Smile?
Reach out to San Marcos Pediatric Dentistry today. We are excited to welcome your family and help protect your child’s brightest, healthiest smile with preventive care that supports long-term oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
arents often have questions about preventive treatments and how they support long-term dental health. Below are answers to common questions about fluoride and sealants.
At What Age Are Sealants Typically Recommended?
Sealants are often recommended once permanent molars begin to come in, usually during early school-age years.
Are Dental Sealants Safe for Children?
Yes. Sealants are made from safe dental materials and have been used for decades in pediatric dentistry.
Will Sealants Replace Brushing and Flossing?
No. Sealants provide added protection but do not replace daily brushing, flossing, or regular dental visits.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Fluoride Treatment?
Dr. Shafiei evaluates factors like cavity risk, enamel strength, and overall oral health before recommending fluoride.
Can Fluoride Treatments Be Done More Than Once?
Yes. Fluoride treatments may be recommended periodically, depending on your child’s dental needs and risk factors.
