Between the ages of 6 and 11 are among the most important years in establishing the permanent health of your child’s teeth, including cavity prevention and protection of dental trauma due to injury. Following are treatments we recommend and offer at Park Smiles NYC Pediatrics to help prevent cavities and build a solid foundation for your child’s long-term oral health.

Cavity Prevention

The best thing any parent can do to prevent cavities is to teach children about good oral hygiene. It’s also important to reinforce good nutrition, which includes talking about healthy and unhealthy snack choices. Parents should also play a role in brushing and flossing until the child is eight or nine years old and has the dexterity that adults have to brush and floss effectively. Of course, parents should follow up every six months for routine exams and cleanings at our office.

Sealants

Sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surface of teeth. The sealant is worked into the tiny grooves where cavity-causing bacteria live. Toothbrush bristles are too large to reach into the grooves, making sealant application one of the most important preventive treatments available. The procedure is painless and quick!

Orthodontia

Children should receive a comprehensive evaluation for orthodontic development around the age of seven. During your child’s orthodontic evaluation, we may choose to perform a panoramic radiograph. This typically occurs after the first set of permanent molars has erupted. The radiograph allows us to do an overall evaluation of the joints and position of the adult teeth that are still developing.

Prevention of injury during sports and recreational activities

For those parents with children who are into sports, mouth guards are highly recommended (required in some cases), especially for contact sports like football or soccer where contact with another child or getting hit in the mouth with the ball is a distinct possibility.

Mouth guards do more than prevent tooth injuries. They’re also effective in reducing concussions and more severe brain injuries. There are many options such as over-the-counter mouth guards, but custom mouth guards are by far the most effective protection and prevention.

Contact Us

We are always available for a consultation to answer any other questions you may have regarding your child’s unique dental health care needs. Give us a call today!