Preventative Dentistry

Professional Cleanings and Exams

Routine professional cleanings are an essential part of preventing dental problems. At these visits, we use special tools and techniques to clean your child’s teeth thoroughly, removing built-up plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can’t reach. This deep cleaning helps keep harmful bacteria at bay, which prevents cavities.

After the cleaning, one of our pediatric dentists—Dr. Christina Ciano, Dr. Geena Russo, Dr. Erin Norris, or Dr. Devina Shah—will examine your child’s teeth and gums. This exam allows us to spot any potential issues early on when they’re easier to treat, helping to ensure that your child’s smile stays healthy between visits.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens enamel, helping to protect against decay and cavities. Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry offers fluoride treatments during your child’s regular dental visits. This quick and easy treatment helps strengthen your child’s teeth, providing extra protection against cavities.

While fluoride is in toothpaste and drinking water, our fluoride treatments are more potent and effective in our office. It’s an excellent way to reinforce the health of your child’s teeth, particularly if they’re at higher risk for cavities.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are another tool we use to protect your child’s teeth. We apply these thin, protective coatings to the chewing surfaces of molars, where grooves and crevices can trap food particles and bacteria. Sealants create a barrier that removes harmful substances, significantly reducing the risk of decay. They’re beneficial for young children who may have difficulty thoroughly brushing those back teeth.

At-Home Preventative Measures

While in-office treatments are crucial for maintaining your child’s oral health, good habits at home are equally important. We work closely with families to educate them on the best practices for caring for their child’s teeth at home. Here are some simple but effective strategies:

Brushing and Flossing Twice a Day

Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of good oral hygiene. Encouraging your child to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and to floss daily can go a long way in preventing cavities. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria from the surface of the teeth, while flossing cleans between teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Making these habits part of your child’s daily routine will help keep their teeth clean and healthy.

Reducing Sugar Intake

Sugary snacks and drinks can lead to tooth decay, especially if consumed frequently. One way to help prevent cavities is by limiting your child’s sugar intake. When you consume sugary foods and drinks, bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack tooth enamel, eventually leading to cavities. Reducing the sugar in your child’s diet can help minimize the risk of decay and contribute to overall oral health.

Using Fluoridated Products

Using toothpaste with fluoride is another important part of your child’s at-home oral care routine. Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and provides extra protection against decay. There are also fluoride mouth rinses available for additional defense, especially for children who may be more prone to cavities.

Choosing the Right Tools

Investing in a quality toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene. If your child struggles with brushing independently, consider an electric toothbrush, which can make brushing more fun and effective. Floss holders or kid-friendly floss picks can make flossing easier and encourage your child to develop good habits.

The Importance of Pediatric Preventative Dentistry in Princeton

Pediatric preventative dentistry is about more than just keeping teeth clean—it’s about setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy habits and avoiding the need for more extensive dental treatments later on. By addressing potential issues early, we can help your child avoid discomfort and more complex procedures in the future. Additionally, positive experiences with preventative care can help build trust between your child and their dentist, reducing dental anxiety and promoting a positive attitude toward oral health.

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry: Partnering with You for Your Child’s Health

At Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry, we know that good dental health starts with prevention. Our team, including Dr. Christina Ciano, Dr. Geena Russo, Dr. Erin Norris, and Dr. Devina Shah, can help your child maintain a healthy smile through regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and good oral care practices. Together, we can help your child establish healthy habits that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Pediatric Preventative Dentistry in Princeton

Preventing dental problems before they start is the best way to ensure your child’s smile remains healthy and bright. If you have questions about our preventative services or would like to schedule an appointment for your child, please get in touch with our office in Princeton, New Jersey. At Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help your family every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn more about our pediatric preventative dentistry in Princeton and how we can help keep your child’s smile healthy and happy!