Dental visits can be intimidating for children, but one way to get rid of that fear before it can even form is exposure! Prioritizing healthy smiles in our young children will help them to feel comfortable with dental visits. 

The theme of this year's National Children's Dental Health Month (NCDHM) is "Sealants Make Sense!" Sealants on children's teeth can help reduce the risk of caries, or progressive destruction of bone or tooth by decay, in molars by up to 80%. The earlier children can get sealants on their molars, the better. For more information and resources (including fun activity sheets, coloring pages, and posters), visit the ADA's website for Public Programs.

{Cavity Prevention} The moment your child's first tooth comes in it is susceptible to developing a cavity. A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by bacteria. It may not be painful at first, but the cavity if left untreated then it can hurt. Even worse the developing infection can not only spread to other parts of that tooth but also your child's body.

There are many ways you can help prevent cavities in your child:

• Introduce your child to good dental habits early
• Schedule his/her first dental visit once his/her first tooth comes in
• Brush his/her teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
• Clean between (floss) teeth that are side by side once daily
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks
• Limit juice/milk/soda pop drinking only to meals
• 4oz for children 1-3 years old
• 4-6oz for children 4-6 years old
• 8oz for children 7-18 years old
• Ask us about sealants
• The chewing surface of the molars in the back of your child's mouth have pits and grooves where the cavities can form. Sealants are used to help seal these pits and grooves and protect your child's molars from developing cavities

If you have questions about your child's dental health, our team is here for you! Call us at (630) 620 8099 to schedule an appointment or schedule below.