Preventive Pediatric Dentistry in Andover, MA

An oral evaluation is recommended every six (6) months to prevent cavities and other dental problems. During an oral evaluation, a thorough dental health examination of the mouth, head, and neck is performed to detect abnormalities.

Regular cleanings help keep gums healthy and teeth cavity-free for a healthy smile. A child’s dental cleaning includes removal of tartar and plaque and polishing of the teeth to remove stains and prevent further buildup of plaque.

Fluoride is a natural substance that helps strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are administered at this office as an important dental hygiene component of pediatric dental treatment. The fluoride is applied to the teeth in a gel, foam, or varnish form.

Dental X-rays are a valuable diagnostic tool used to identify tooth decay, extra teeth, bone defects, tumors, cysts and check the progress of previous procedures. Advances in technology now allow for digital X-rays, which reduce radiation exposure more than 50 percent, and produce instant, high-quality images that can be viewed immediately by the dentist and the patient.

During a regular dental health check-up, oral hygiene instructions are given to both patient and parent (or caregiver). For a child’s oral health, good home care can reduce the risk of plaque and tartar build-up which can lead to cavities. Pediatric dentistry service instructions include proper techniques for brushing, flossing, and using mouth rinses.

Dental sealants are made of a safe resin material which is applied to the surfaces of teeth (commonly permanent molars) to prevent cavities. The sealant material fills in the crevices of a tooth and “seals” off the tooth from cavity-causing agents like food and plaque. The teeth are prepared for the sealant application and the sealant is painted directly onto the chewing surface of each tooth and then hardens. Sealants offer preventative care and are applied in one dental office visit.