Good home oral hygiene that includes brushing and flossing twice a day is the best way for your children to protect their smiles from decay. Parents often want to know if there are other options to help ward off cavities and bacteria from their children’s teeth. Dr. Devan Dalla is a trained and experienced pediatric dentist at DNTL Hub in Galt, CA, and he routinely recommends fluoride treatments for kids to all the families in his care.
Fluoride is a natural substance that fights cavities. This common mineral strengthens the outer enamel of teeth, helping them to resist acid and bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and cavities. It can even reverse beginning signs of decay and make tooth enamel more resistant to harmful bacteria.
While your child can get fluoride from food and many local areas add the substance to drinking water, this additional treatment from our team at DNTL Hub adds a more direct protection. Children who have undergone a fluoride treatment should not eat or drink for at least a half an hour to allow the substance to absorb thoroughly into the teeth.
Cavity Protection with Fluoride Treatment
After a thorough professional cleaning, our hygienist at DNTL Hub will apply a topical fluoride treatment. This consists of a fluoride gel or foam that is placed into mouth-shaped trays. These fun-looking “duck trays” are inserted into your child’s mouth, allowing the teeth to “soak” for several minutes. There is no pain or discomfort to this treatment.
After the treatment is finished, the residual material is discarded, and your child’s dental visit is completed. Dr. Dalla may recommend that your child receive these treatments at every checkup and cleaning, or at least twice a year. Fluoride can be applied up to four times per year for extra protection against cavities and decay.
Ask about fluoride treatments and other protective measures we can provide at DNTL Hub when you schedule your children for their next exam and cleaning. Most dental insurance covers preventive oral care 100%, so use your benefits to better protect your child’s oral health. Ask a team member for help using your dental benefits or for information about our finance options.