Rancho Santa Margarita
Children's preventive dentist

Preventative dentistry starts at home. Visiting us every six months is no substitute for good dental habits every day. Proper oral care includes brushing at least twice a day for two minutes, and flossing once per day. It’s important to take steps to encourage proper oral hygiene so your little one can enjoy a carefree, happy smile well into adulthood.

Dental sealants consist of a clear plastic resin that is applied to your child’s rear teeth in liquid form. Once the liquid resin hardens, it creates a strong barrier that prevents oral bacteria, acid, and food particles from contacting the enamel directly, which stops cavities from forming. Sealants can help prevent cavities for up to 10 years.

Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that has the unique ability to help your teeth “remineralize” after they have been weakened by tooth decay. Because of this, fluoride treatments can be used to reverse the most minor stage of tooth decay, called “soft spots.” During treatment, a fluoride-rich paste is applied directly to your child’s teeth, left in place for a few minutes, then rinsed away. After this treatment, the tooth will attract minerals like calcium and phosphate, which will make the outer layers of your child’s tooth stronger.

We may recommend radiographs as part of your child’s checkup if we believe that they have a dental issue that may not be apparent from a visual exam alone, such as teeth that are growing in improperly or hidden tooth decay. Our x-rays are modern and very safe, and we will only take x-rays upon your approval.

Studies show that more than half of teens have some form of gum disease. This is most likely due to a diet high in sugar along with improper oral hygiene habits. Signs of gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) include gum tenderness, redness, or puffiness as well as bleeding when your child brushes and flosses.
 
Periodontal care, such as a deep cleaning (scaling & root planing) along with antibiotic treatment can eliminate gingivitis, and keep your child’s gums and teeth healthy. Schedule an appointment today if you think your child may have gingivitis! We will always check for signs of gum disease during routine appointments in order to address the issue as early as possible.