Dr. Mike and his fellow pediatric dentists at Little Pearls Dentistry for Children specialize in maintaining and restoring the health and beauty of children’s smiles. Each specialist has at least two years of additional training in pediatric dentistry (beyond dental school), and our practice is limited exclusively to the care of infants, children, and teens. So, you can trust us when we say that fluoride treatment at our office in Lansdowne, Virginia is safe for kids!
Fluoride is a natural mineral. You can find it in trace amounts in food sources and water. Controlled amounts of fluoride are associated with remineralizing the protective outer surface of the teeth (enamel). In turn, fluoride plays both a protective, preventive and restorative role, supporting the strength of the teeth and reversing active caries (cavities).
We will provide guidance on your child’s evolving needs for fluoride during routine visits. For infants and toddlers we will make an assessment on the child’s risk for cavities and will discuss the proper timing for the implementation of fluoride toothpaste. One size does not fit it all. Take care to monitor your young child or child with special needs to ensure he or she does not swallow excessive amounts of the toothpaste.
At LPD, we use a topical fluoride called varnish. It is non-invasive, safe, painless, and can be applied quickly. In studies, the application of preventive fluoride varnish can protect the teeth for up to four months. So, it is a long-lasting tool in the fight against cavities and tooth loss.
We also offer SDF (Silver Diamine Fluoride). It has many of the same benefits and characteristics associated with fluoride varnish; it is also formulated with silver to kill bacteria. SDF is primarily indicated for damage that has progressed to the cavities stage.
Professional fluoride supplementation is a great and safe way to complement excellent home care and regular hygiene appointments at our practice. Schedule a visit for your child by calling us at (571) 601-2080.
