Preventative Care
Staying ahead of problems by building good habits today!
Preventative Care and Education
Helping your little surfers build a lifetime of healthy habits
Preventing dental problems is easier and more cost-effective than fixing them. At Smile Surfers, we focus on preventive care and education to help your children avoid oral health issues.
We want your little ones to make healthy choices, so we equip them with the tools and training they need to succeed. This focus is essential not just for their oral health but for their overall wellness as well.
We offer fun, educational training and tips in the following areas:
- Nutritional guidance
- Encouraging positive habits related to diet, exercise, sleep, and more
- Highlighting the connection between oral health and overall well-being
- Motivating your child to take proactive steps toward a healthy, happy life
Our goal is to inspire you and your little surfers to embrace healthy habits that will last a lifetime!
Taming the Sugar Monster!
Understanding the risks of excessive sugar can empower your little surfer to make healthier choices.
Kids and sugar are like peanut butter and jelly!
Sugary foods and drinks have long been a dentist’s nemesis because sugar fuels the bacteria that lead to tooth decay. However, recent studies indicate that sugar’s harmful effects extend beyond just oral health; it also impacts overall health. Consuming excessive sugar has been linked to serious diseases in both children and adults!
By tackling the broader issue of excessive sugar consumption, we can also address its effects on dental health. The sooner we start providing preventative education about sugar, the better the outcomes will be.
Check out this short video to learn more about the dangers of too much sugar:
Healthy Options
FAQs About Preventive Care
Check out the helpful information below!
What are dental sealants?
While brushing and flossing can effectively remove food particles and plaque from your children’s teeth, the back teeth (molars) are often more challenging to clean thoroughly; in fact, 90% of cavities occur in these areas. A dental sealant is a clear polymer that can coat a tooth and “seal out” decay-causing plaque and stubborn food particles. Sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of cavities by 80%.
We recommend applying sealants when your kids’ permanent teeth start to come in. Sealants can protect your little surfers’ teeth during the cavity-prone years between ages six and fourteen. Most insurance plans cover the cost of sealants, so be sure to ask us about them at your next visit!
Are fluoride treatments important for my child's teeth?
Fluoride helps strengthen enamel and can prevent cavities from developing. It also protects against tooth decay by making teeth more resistant to the acids produced by plaque and bacteria.
We encourage children under 16 to receive fluoride treatments, especially if they live in areas where fluoride isn’t added to the public water supply.
How can I help prevent tooth decay in my children's teeth?
In addition to utilizing preventive services, one of the best things you can do is help your little surfer develop good hygiene habits.
Bringing your children to our dental office after their first tooth appears and establishing a routine of regular visits allows us to educate them on how to care for their teeth. We make this experience fun and engaging while providing incentives for their progress.
As a parent, we encourage you to reinforce this training at home. We’re here to assist you with instructions, tools, and tips to motivate your kiddos to brush their teeth!
