February is the perfect time to schedule a visit with a children’s dentist in Anthem. Knowing that your child’s teeth and gums are in good shape will allow you to focus on other priorities going forward. In the event your little one need a little extra care, your dentist can help with concentrated fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and dental care hygiene tips. Each is designed to put a smile both on your child’s face and on your own.
How Concentrated Fluoride Treatments Work
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that makes teeth more resistant to cavity-causing bacteria. Most of us get enough fluoride from the toothpaste and tap water we use. But some of us need a little more of this helpful supplement, especially if we fall into any of the following categories:
- People with a family history of tooth decay or gum disease.
- People who are unable to receive regular dental care due to financial or other limitations.
- People who wear braces, since orthodontic equipment can interfere with dental self-care.
- People who suffer from dry mouth, either due to medical side effects or salivary gland disorders.
- People with high levels of cavity-causing bacteria in their mouth.
Concentrated fluoride typically takes the form of a gel or liquid that’s applied directly to the teeth using a cotton swab, brush, or tray. Your dentist may recommend such treatments every three, six, or 12 months, depending on your child’s needs.
How Dental Sealants Work
Brushing is essential for enjoying good dental health. But some of us have oral profiles that includes nooks, crannies, and depressions that are beyond the reach of a normal toothbrush. These are prime spots for plaque to build up and cause cavities.
Dental sealants offer a way to protect these out-of-the-way areas. Your dentist will gently apply a bio-friendly coating to the vulnerable spots, creating a barrier between bacteria and the teeth they seek to harm. The treatment can make all the difference in the world to your child’s dental report.
Oral Health Lifestyle Tips
All of us know that we should brush and floss. But how many of us follow the tips we learned way back when we were children ourselves – like taking our time, making sure each tooth gets it due attention, and replacing our toothbrush when it starts to fray? Overlooking small steps like these can add up to a big difference when it comes to our long term dental health.
It never hurts to have a trained dental professional give us tips for tine-tuning our self-care efforts. You dentist in Anthem is a treasure trove of information on this important topic. Ask him or her to coach your family members on brushing and flossing for best effect. While they’re at it, why not join in and learn a new thing or two for yourself?
The first few months of a new year are the ideal time for focusing on your family’s wellbeing. The steps you take now will result in years of improved dental health for yourself and your loved ones. You’ll look back on your wise decisions with plenty of reason to smile.
About the Author
Arizona native Dr. Lori Anderson has been practicing dentistry for more than 20 years. She earned her dental degree from University of Colorado School of Dentistry in 1998 and is widely considered one of the Phoenix area’s top dentists. You can reach her office online or by calling (480) 405-4193.
