You may have your child brush their teeth twice daily and visit Half Moon Bay Family Dentistry twice a year, but there is even more you can do to take care of their smile. We provide fluoride treatment and tooth sealants for kids to protect against cavities.
Fluoride is known as "nature's cavity fighter" because it strengthens the tooth's outer layer, the enamel. With fluoride, teeth become more resistant to the acid that causes tooth decay.
Your child gets fluoride daily from brushing their teeth and drinking fluoridated water. But a professional fluoride treatment administered by our team is more effective.
Fluoride is safe for children when given in the correct amount. Many organizations, including the American Dental Association and World Health Organization, endorse it. And fluoride has been a part of most public water systems for over 75 years.
In rare cases, too much of this mineral can lead to dental fluorosis. This condition could cause white spots on the enamel, but it is much less common than oral health problems due to not getting enough fluoride.
Several forms of fluoride treatment for kids are available, like gel, varnish, or tablets. How fluoride is applied depends on which method is used. Tablets are taken orally. They are often prescribed to children who don’t have access to fluoridated water.
Varnish or gel fluoride is applied directly to each tooth after routine cleaning and allowed to soak in. In our Half Moon Bay family dental practice, we use fluoride varnish. Your child should not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after application to allow for the best absorption.
Unless your child is at extreme risk for developing tooth decay, we’ll likely recommend fluoride treatment twice per year. But we'll discuss your child's fluoride intake with you to determine how they would benefit from a professional treatment.
A tooth sealant is a filling material placed on the chewing surfaces of premolars and molars. How do sealants prevent cavities? This material sticks to the pits and grooves of these teeth and forms a thin layer that seals out plaque and debris, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
Premolar and molar sealants are applied in a single visit. The teeth are cleaned and conditioned to help the sealant material stick to the tooth. After placing the sealant onto the tooth, it is hardened using a special curing light.
With proper care, sealants can last many years and protect your child's teeth during cavity-prone stages. Sealants will last longer if you make sure your child practices good oral hygiene and maintains a balanced diet.
Dr. Riley and Dr. Gabby will check each sealant during routine dental visits and may recommend reapplication if necessary.
By design, sealants help prevent your child's teeth from developing cavities. However, children should continue brushing and flossing regularly. Sealants can become chipped or fall off, making them less effective in the fight against tooth decay.
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