Dental Prevention & Care
Gresham, OR
Professional cleanings performed by a hygienist or dental assistant are important to your child's dental health as are daily brushing and flossing. Using specialized tools and kid-friendly language, we will:
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Remove plaque build-up from the surfaces of teeth. Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which collects on teeth and causes decay, gum disease and gingivitis |
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Remove tartar from teeth surfaces. Tartar, or calculus, is plaque that has become so hardened on the teeth that its removal requires special procedures. Tartar below the gum line is also an indicator of gum disease, and generally appears on older children and adults |
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Help with brushing and flossing techniques, and encouraging healthy eating habits at home to promote good oral development |
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Remove surface stains from teeth through polishing |
Regular examinations help detect and prevent health issues before they become serious. Twice yearly dental check-ups help catch problems when they are small and easier to treat. Left unattended, small treatable problems become worse and may require more extensive, expensive procedures to repair. Dental examinations in our office generally include the following:
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Digital x-rays to assess proper tooth development and healthy eruption of primary and permanent teeth |
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Thorough examination of the teeth, looking for areas of decay, teeth that will be exfoliating (coming out soon), future orthodontic needs, and any treatment diagnosis |
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Head, neck, and mouth visual examination |
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So, what is fluoride? Fluoride is a naturally occurring element. Fluoride can be found in water, air, plants, and animals. In areas with fluoride naturally in the water, cavity formation is greatly reduced.
Studies show that cavities are reduced from fifteen to thirty percent in kids who use fluoride toothpaste. We suggest that you institute an age-appropriate, recommended form of fluoride as part of your daily regimen for your children after the age of 6 months.
Sealants are generally used to help prevent tooth decay on the biting surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars). The natural grooves of these teeth can trap food and bacteria that can resist casual brushing and rinsing. If left in place, the trapped food allows bacteria to multiply, eventually causing tooth decay and requiring costly attention.
Sealants are painted directly onto the tooth where they seal the natural grooves to help prevent tooth decay. While sealants are durable, they are not permanent. They can last several years before needing replacement.
Sealants offer a cost-effective, preventative step to reduce the chances of tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. However, they do not replace the need for regular brushing and flossing. |
