Oral Health for School-Age Children
In younger children, baby teeth are very important. Yes, baby teeth will eventually fall out, however, they help your child pronounce words and eat nutritious food to grow healthy and strong. Pretty soon, your child’s adult teeth will start to come in. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cavities are the most common childhood disease in the United States, even though they are preventable.
Fluoride varnish is a safe and easy way to treat cavities in children. It is very good in lowering risk of cavities and can be applied once every 6 months or at each dental visit. It is recommended that dentists and primary care provider apply fluoride varnish to children’s primary teeth through age 5.
Dental sealants are a safe and easy way to protect your child’s teeth from cavities. Sealants are a great way to lower the risk of cavities and can be applied by your dentist or primary care provider.
Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush to take care of your teeth. A pea-size amount of toothpaste is all you need to keep your teeth clean and cavity-free.
The next time you visit your dentist, ask about fluoride varnish or dental sealants for your child’s teeth. Sealants and fluoride varnish are covered services under Medi-Cal.
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