Preventative Dentistry at Once Upon a Tooth
Your Pediatric Dentist Eastchester, NY
When to Schedule
Experts recommend that children have their first dental checkup by the age of one or shortly after the eruption of their first tooth. This may seem early, but it is essential to start early to prevent dental problems from developing. By starting dental visits early, parents can help their children become comfortable with dental appointments and build a positive relationship with their dental providers; this can reduce their anxiety in the future. Plus, early intervention allows us to reduce the need for treatments in the future, promoting better oral development and lowering the total cost of dental care.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are crucial to maintaining optimal oral health at every age. Even with proper brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can accumulate on teeth and gums. Professional cleanings remove the buildup that can cause cavities and gum disease. At Once Upon a Tooth, our pediatric dental team provides gentle cleanings that are specifically tailored to children’s needs. We use techniques that are effective yet non-invasive, and we work hard to make sure that children feel comfortable and relaxed during their appointment.
Children’s Dental Checkups
As a board-certified pediatric dentist at Once Upon a Tooth in Eastchester, NY, Dr. Lisneida (“Lis”) Arjona is passionate about providing exceptional dental care for children of all ages. One of the most important aspects of oral health is preventative dental care. By implementing preventative measures, we can help your child reduce their risk of common oral diseases and tooth loss.
Protective Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are an excellent preventative measure for children’s more cavity-prone back teeth. These thin, protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars to help prevent tooth decay. Dental sealants create a barrier that protects the teeth from the bacteria and acids that cause cavities. At Once Upon a Tooth, we recommend dental sealants as soon as a child’s permanent molars erupt, which is usually around ages six and twelve, respectively.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay. It works by strengthening tooth enamel, making it more resistant to the acids that cause cavities. Fluoride treatments are quick and painless and can be completed during a regular dental checkup. The fluoride can also help reverse early demineralization, which is the first stage of tooth decay. At Once Upon a Tooth, we also recommend fluoride supplements for kids in braces.
Age-Appropriate Oral Hygiene Instruction
Educating children about great oral health habits is one of the most important aspects of preventative dental care. We provide age-appropriate oral hygiene instruction to children and their parents to help them understand the best way to brush, floss, and maintain good oral health habits. We also work with children to teach them proper techniques, making sure they are using the right tools and methods to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Orthodontic Screenings
Orthodontic screenings are important to identify potential growth and placement issues with a child’s teeth and jaws early on. By detecting these issues at earlier stages of oral development, we can create a treatment plan to correct them before they become more severe. At Once Upon a Tooth, we perform orthodontic screenings during regular dental checkups to monitor the development of a child’s oral anatomy and facial profile. If we identify any issues, we will discuss them and recommend any necessary treatment.