Preventive Dentistry

In Mt. Vernon

Just as for adults, dental check-ups and cleanings for kids are important. Our friendly dental team will ensure your child's teeth and gums are clean and healthy. We also examine their mouth and any necessary x-rays to catch any potential toothy troubles early. These visits are a great time to chat about what to expect as your child's smile grows, including tips for oral care at home and food choices that can help keep their teeth strong and bright.

Fluoride treatments offer a simple, non-invasive way to prevent dental decay. After your child's cleaning, a fluoride-rich gel or varnish is applied, followed by a short period of no eating or drinking. Fluoride initiates a process called “remineralization,” strengthening teeth with essential minerals.

Dental sealants are like invisible tooth protectors! We paint a clear, BPA-free resin on your child's teeth that hardens under a special light. It acts like a shield, keeping away cavity-causing bacteria and food particles from narrow areas on the teeth that are impossible to clean. This treatment is especially great for back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form.

Digital x-rays, a quick and efficient method for capturing images of your child's dental health, are used only when deemed necessary by the dentist. Typically, x-rays are recommended every few years, though children with a higher risk of oral disease may need more frequent scans.

We believe in a "whole health" approach, which includes yummy, healthy food choices. It's not always easy to change eating habits, but it's definitely worth it. Eating well benefits not only your child's smile but their overall wellbeing.

Oral habits like thumb or finger sucking can be hard to quit voluntarily. Let us help your child break this habit with the appropriate appliance.

In dental emergencies involving children, acting swiftly is vital. Quick and appropriate care is essential not only for their recovery but also for alleviating their pain and discomfort. Be it a toothache, a broken or chipped tooth, or any other urgent dental issue, rest assured we are prepared to assist. Uncertain whether your child's situation qualifies as an emergency? Please don't delay in contacting us. Our experienced team is ready to evaluate the urgency, provide immediate guidance for care at home, and arrange a prompt appointment. We're dedicated to helping your child return to their joyful, worry-free self as soon as possible.

Unconscious teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, is a common issue that tends to happen at night while kids are asleep. However, night guards can help alleviate symptoms of bruxism by creating a barrier between their teeth that protects them from grinding-related damage. Depending on the severity of the case, night guards can be made from several different materials with varying degrees of softness.

Sports guards are worn over the teeth, and are specifically designed to protect your child's mouth from oral trauma caused by high-impact sports. Many sports put players at risk for dental injuries caused by collisions to the mouth, face, or head, but a custom-fitted sports guard can help protect you from chipping, cracking, or knocking out a tooth. Tailored to fit your child's unique smile, sports guards are both comfortable and durable, so they can play the sports they love without missing a beat.

As your child grows, their baby teeth are destined to fall out to make room for their adult counterparts. But when they fall out too early, it can heighten the risk for orthodontic complications later on. We want your child to thrive, which is why we offer space maintenance, a solution that keeps your child's teeth from shifting and having misalignment issues as they erupt. If you are concerned about your child's baby teeth falling out, we can help them get a lifetime of healthy smiles.