PREVENTIVE CARE

ORANGE COUNTY PREVENTIVE DENTAL CARE
At Orange County Children’s Dentistry, we believe that educating families about oral health is the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. For this reason, we want our relationship to start with your child by their first birthday, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Establishing an early relationship with you and your family will allow Dr. Ruiz to provide the proper education and guidance to aid in preventing cavities and set a solid foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our staff will educate your child on proper nutrition, brushing and flossing techniques, and when needed, may recommend preventative treatments such as fluoride and sealants.

FLUORIDE
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral. It aids in making the outer surface of your teeth, the enamel, stronger. Stronger enamel can decrease your chances of dental decay. Fluoride can be taken systemically or be placed topically. Fluoride is found in almost all water sources including lakes, rivers and oceans. For approximately 70 years, our community water has been fluoridated with the optimal amount of fluoride to prevent help prevent tooth decay. Additionally, it can be found in foods and beverages or be applied topically with toothpaste or during a dental office visit. If you brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste, it can help remineralize weakened areas and stop the progression of early signs of dental decay. It is one of the easiest ways to prevent against dental cavities.

SEALANTS
Brushing, flossing, and eating healthy are the best ways to maintain a healthy smile. However, sometimes it can be difficult for children to brush every nook and cranny, especially the uneven surfaces and pits of the back of the teeth, called the molars. For this reason, dental sealants are typically recommended to help prevent cavities on adult molars. Sealants are thin plastic coating that are applied with a small brush onto the uneven chewing surfaces of the teeth (where food and bacteria like to hide) to provide a barrier between the tooth and food. It is painless and has been effective in reducing the risk of dental decay by 80% in molars. When applied and taken care of properly, sealants can last for years. If your child likes to eat hard foods such ice or nuts, it can cause the sealant to chip off. Dr. Ruiz will check your sealants at each visit and inform you if any touch-ups should be made.

Schedule Your Child’s Preventive Dental Care Today
When it comes to keeping your little one’s smile happy and healthy, preventive care is an essential tool. Schedule your preventive dental care appointment at OC Children’s Dentistry today!

Caring for Life’s Little Treasures