Fluoride and sealants are two of the most powerful tools kids’ dentists have for preventing cavities, but many parents aren’t sure how they work.
Fluoride: Think of fluoride as a protective shield for your child’s teeth. It strengthens enamel—the hard outer layer—making teeth more resistant to acids from food and bacteria. Fluoride can even help repair tiny early cavities before they become bigger problems.
Sealants: These are thin, protective coatings applied to the grooves of your child’s back teeth (molars). Since these grooves are perfect hiding spots for food and bacteria, sealants act like a roof over the tooth, preventing decay before it starts.
Why it matters: Children are more prone to cavities because their teeth have deeper grooves, and their oral hygiene may not be perfect. Using fluoride treatments and sealants helps reduce the risk of decay dramatically, often preventing future fillings or more serious dental procedures.
Kids dentists can assess which teeth are most at risk, how often treatments are needed, and how to combine fluoride and sealants with daily brushing for maximum protection. The result? Strong, healthy teeth—and fewer trips to the dentist for cavities.
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