Most Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Belmont, Walker, Sparta and Rockford, MI parents know children’s oral health basics: brush regularly, reduce sugar intake, limit snacking, and get adequate amounts of calcium and Vitamin D. Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry recommends three additional tools for preventing cavities in toddlers and children.
Sealants
Fluoride supplements
Oral rinses
Resin dental sealants are applied to natural unrestored teeth. The material bonds to the chewing surfaces of the tooth, protecting the pits and fissures from decay.
Fluoride supplements help strengthen still-forming teeth prior to eruption. You can get a prescription from your pediatrician or call Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull. There is one caveat, however: if you have fluoridated water, you may need to have your water tested to see what strength of fluoride is recommended for your family.
If your child is taking fluoride supplements, is an oral rinse redundant? Actually, no. Fluoride supplements help strengthen teeth that are still forming, but a fluoride rinse helps teeth that have already come in. Oral rinses containing fluoride can be purchased at any Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Belmont, Walker, Sparta or Rockford, MI grocery store. Make sure you buy one specifically formulated for children. Products labeled as a mouthwash are usually intended only for breath-freshening and may not contain fluoride.
We recommend children use an oral rinse after they brush and floss at night. They are most effective when they are the last substance on teeth before kids go to bed.
At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we believe that with proper preventative dentistry, children can enjoy healthy teeth for life.
Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
616-827-7019
