Regular Checkups

Here at Pediatric Dentistry and Family Orthodontics of Jupiter & Wellington, we are dedicated to the prevention of tooth decay.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child visit a dentist within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by age 1. These early dental visits are important to establish a dental home and set the foundation for positive dental experiences and good dental health.

A dental check up is recommended at least every 6 months. We encourage parents/guardians to accompany your child in the back and sit by them during their visit.

Regular dental visits are important to help ensure your child stays cavity free. During these visits, your child’s teeth will be gently examined and thoroughly cleaned. Teeth cleanings help remove plaque and food build up on the teeth that could lead to cavities or gum problems. A preventative fluoride treatment is then applied to help strengthen your child’s enamel making it more resistant to cavities. It may be recommended that X-rays be taken, which will allow the doctor to look for cavities between the teeth.

It is important for parents to brush and floss their child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts. At your child’s visit, we will demonstrate brushing and flossing techniques and discuss any needed recommendations about your child’s diet, oral habits, and possible need for braces. We want to ensure your child is achieving optimum dental health and are excited to address any questions or concerns you may have. We want your child to be excited and motivated to achieve a happy and healthy smile!

At the end of the appointment, your child will be given a new toothbrush, dental floss, toothpaste and a small reward!

Fluoride

Fluoride is made of fluorine, a natural element. It protects your child’s teeth by strengthening your child’s enamel (outer layer of tooth) and fights against bacteria that cause cavities. It has been shown to help prevent decay in people of all ages, especially when combined with a healthy diet and good oral hygiene.

For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Medical Association believe that fluoride is necessary for good oral health.

Fluoride Toothpaste
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends parents brush twice daily once the first tooth is erupted. For children under the age of 3, a smear or rice size amount of toothpaste containing fluoride should be used. For children between the ages of 3-6 years old, a pea size amount of toothpaste containing fluoride is recommended.

Professionally Applied Topical Fluoride Treatment
Topical fluoride treatments can be completed at your routine dental appointment. Topical fluoride is a preventative treatment to strengthen tooth enamel. They are painless and quick, taking only a few minutes. When getting treated, a dental professional will brush or “paint” on a gel or varnish on your teeth. Treatment works best if it is done one to four times a year. Topical varnish is especially beneficial to patients who have a high cavity risk, braces, dry mouth, or diets high in sugar.

You may wonder what else you need to do in addition to getting regular fluoride treatments. The American Dental Association recommends drinking fluoridated water and using a toothpaste with fluoride.

If you have any questions about fluoride and your dental health, don’t hesitate to contact us today at (561) 747-3338.

Sealants

Pediatric Dentistry and Family Orthodontics of Jupiter & Wellington is pleased to offer sealants for our patients!

Even if your child brushes and flosses, it can sometimes be difficult to clean the deep grooves and pits on teeth. Food and bacteria get trapped in these areas and can lead to cavities. Sealants are a protective coating that can be placed on the tooth to get rid of the rough edges, depressions, and grooves that are commonly found on teeth. It is essentially a protective coating against tooth decay and cavities.

The most common place to paint sealants is on back teeth since they are often bumpy and groovy. They can also be very hard to reach, even if you brush your teeth regularly.

Applying a sealant is very quick, easy, and pain-free! The tooth is cleaned, conditioned, and dried. The sealant material is then placed in the grooves and pits of the tooth and hardened with a special light. Your child can eat and drink right after the visit.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (561) 747-3338 if you have any questions about sealants.