Dental decay is the primary reason for children being admitted to hospital for general anaesthetic. In the young the prescence of decay can affect the childs ability to speak and eat, and if left to progress can lead th dental pain and eventually extractions.
Fluoride has proven to reduce the rates of dental decay and is available in all well recognised toothpastes. The application of fluoride twice a day can help reduce decay and is the easiest way to harden the enamel of the teeth.
Recently the Cohrane health review published its findings in water fluoridation and the studies showed that fluoride in water has resulted in a 35% reduction in dental decay in baby teeth and a 25% reduction in decay in adult teeth. However Fluoridated water is not available in all parts of the UK and hence other ways of exposing the teeth to fluoride are necessary.
At 44 dental care we can help introduce measures to prevent dental decay by various methods. As soon as the molar adult teeth come through in children we can apply a Fluoride varnish every time a child comes in for an examination. By applying the varnish over a long period of time, eventually the enamel can strengthen and are more resistant to dental decay.
Some children can have a sealant placed over the molar teeth which can seal up any small fissures in the surfaces of the enamel. The sealant will prevent the introduction of bacteria in these hard to clean areas and again prevent dental decay. Some of these sealants release fluoride over time and in turn harden enamel aswell.
Children are welcome to attend 44 Dental Care for regular dental check ups. Our experienced dentists can advise on the right action to prevent dental disease and help children form good habits at an early age.
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