Tooth decay is the most common preventable childhood disease in America. But with proper dental care from Dr. O’Grady at OG Dental, you can prevent cavities and ensure that your little one’s teeth continue to develop properly. We love helping you and your family encourage better life-long oral health habits and keeping your children cavity-free! Call us today to schedule an appointment.
According to the American Dental Association, you should bring your child to the dentist for the first time once they turn 1 year old, or when their first tooth erupts; whichever comes first. No matter how old your child is, regular dental appointments are key for their oral health. If you have an older child and have not yet brought them to the dentist, now is the best time to start.
During your first visit at OG Dental, Dr. O’Grady will perform a gentle oral exam. If you have an infant or toddler, he will simply check each erupted tooth and assess your child’s overall oral health.
For older children who have most (or all) of their baby teeth, Dr. O’Grady may also perform a cleaning and take x-rays so he can track their oral development and ensure that their mouths stay healthy. Once your child’s exam is over, Dr. O’Grady will discuss their oral health with you, and answer any questions you may have about brushing, flossing, proper oral hygiene, your child’s development, and more.
If your child is cavity-prone, fluoride treatments can help strengthen their enamel and prevent tooth decay. Dr. O’Grady simply “paints” a fluoride-rich gel onto your child’s teeth, and leaves it in place for several minutes. Then, it is rinsed away. Fluoride can help remineralize weakened enamel, which helps prevent minor cavities and keeps your child’s teeth strong.
Dental sealants are another great way to fight back against cavities. Sealants consist of a liquid plastic resin, which is applied to your child’s rear molars after they have been cleaned and sanitized. This resin quickly hardens and covers the molars, creating a strong bond with the enamel, and preventing plaque, bacteria, sugar, acid, and food debris from contacting the enamel directly. Sealants can last up to 10 years, making them a great long-term investment for your child’s oral health.
