Child Dentistry

Our part of the country rarely sleeps. There is always the next game, activity, or event on your “to-do” list. However, we encourage you to continue to make children’s dentistry in Ontario, CA, a priority. A little routine, preventive care upfront can save you and your child a lot of grief, time, and money down the line. 

Oral health is taught 

While at Ontario Dental Center, we acknowledge the important role that genetics plays in the risk of developing conditions such as gum disease, habits that promote excellent dental and periodontal health play a starring role at the office of Dr. Mukesh Patel. Children who eat a nutritious diet that is “tooth-friendly,” and who consistently brush and floss are more likely to carry these habits with them into adulthood. These habits are particularly vital to foster among young children, as they support the health that is necessary for proper development during those formative years. 

As your child grows and his or her needs evolve, he or she may benefit from the following preventive services:

• Dental sealants – A “raincoat” to protect your child’s back teeth from decay, these thin, BPA-free coatings are made from space-age plastics. When applied to the grooves and pits of the molars, sealants keep foods and other debris out of these hard-to-reach and uneven surfaces. These areas tend to trap food that allows harmful bacteria to flourish. Decay, disease, and tooth loss often follow without appropriate intervention. Dr. Patel may recommend sealants as soon as the molars come in, usually around the age of six. This easy to apply, quick, painless, and affordable treatment is also highly effective; the American Dental Association reports sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by around 80%. During regular appointments, the doctor will check that the sealants are still in top shape and replace them as needed.
• Oral appliances–While braces are most often associated with childhood, many types of devices can be worn in the mouth that may even prevent the need for more invasive treatments (such as conventional orthodontics) later in life. Depending on your child’s needs, we can discuss the use of interceptive devices to reduce thumb-sucking and other habits that may affect the positioning and development of your child’s teeth. Appliances may also be customized to protect your child’s teeth from injuries caused by contact sports and other activities. If we determine that your child is grinding his teeth at night, nightguards can also prevent chips and other damage when worn as directed. 
• Fluoride treatments – Dr. Patel works with you to ensure your child is getting sufficient fluoride. This mineral is particularly beneficial to the developing mouth.Fluoride is incorporated into permanent teeth, effectively creating an “armor” that makes it difficult for acids to demineralize tooth structure. Fluoride may be applied easily and safely in the topical form at the dentist’s office. We can also discuss additional products to use, and how to effectively use them, to get the most out of this decay-fighter.

Starting at around the age of three, your child will begin visiting us for regular check up visits. If your child is not on a regular schedule of dental visits yet, do not delay. Set up an appointment with Dr. Patel today. Call Ontario Dental Center at (909) 414-3535.