Prevention

Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand in hand. At Children's Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are most concerned with all aspects of preventive care. Typically, we recommend that your child receive a thorough oral prophylaxis (cleaning) every 6 months. However, we will on occasion recommend more frequent cleanings for children more susceptible to decay (cavities). 

At each check-up our dental team will apply a fluoride varnish to your child's teeth (twice a year at the least). Fluoride varnish can be applied 4 times a year or every 3 months. Studies show that children who get fluoride every 3 months have fewer cavities than those who get it less often or not at all.

NOTE: While certain dental insurance companies may only pay for topical fluoride varnish application one time per year, this is well below the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and does not reflect scientific data. Our practice does not set our preventive program guidelines based upon insurance reimbursement rates and recommends twice-yearly applications of fluoride varnish.

More information regarding fluoride varnish and application:

We use the latest in sealant technology to protect your child's teeth. Sealants are plastic coatings that are bonded to the chewing surfaces of decay-prone back teeth. This is just one of the ways we will lay the foundation for your child's lifetime of good oral health.