Preventive Dental Care for Children in Austin, TX
At Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces, our approach to pediatric dentistry is rooted in prevention. We believe that proactive care is key to maintaining your child’s oral health and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our dedicated team offers comprehensive preventative care tailored to the unique needs of each child.
The Cornerstones of Preventative Pediatric Dental Care
- Routine Exams and Cleanings: Regular dental exams and cleanings are the foundation of preventative care. These visits allow us to monitor your child’s dental health, address any concerns early, and provide professional cleanings to maintain oral hygiene.
- Dental Sealants: To protect against cavities, we often recommend dental sealants. These thin coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, acting as a barrier against plaque and decay.
- Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Our fluoride treatments are a quick and effective way to give your child’s teeth extra protection.
Educating Young Patients and Families
- Oral Hygiene Instruction: Educating children about proper brushing and flossing techniques is crucial. We make learning fun and engaging, ensuring that good habits are formed early.
- Nutritional Counseling: Diet plays a significant role in dental health. We provide guidance on healthy eating habits that support strong teeth and gums.
- Habit Counseling: For children with habits like thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use, we offer advice and strategies to help protect their developing teeth and jaws.
Why Focus on Preventative Care?
- Early Intervention: Addressing potential dental issues before they become complex can save time, discomfort, and expense in the long run.
- Building Comfort and Confidence: Regular dental visits help children become comfortable in the dental setting, reducing anxiety and building positive associations with dental care.
- Laying the Foundation for Lifelong Health: Instilling good oral hygiene habits and a proactive approach to dental care from a young age sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
Partner with Us for Your Child's Dental Health
Preventative care is a team effort, and we’re here to be your partner in your child’s dental health journey.
Schedule a visit to Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces for comprehensive preventive care tailored to your child’s needs.
We’re excited to help your child develop a happy, healthy smile!
Meet The Doctors
At the heart of Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces are our dedicated professionals. Our team, led by skilled and compassionate dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons, brings a wealth of knowledge and a child-friendly approach to each appointment. Our staff is continually trained in the latest dental techniques, ensuring your family receives the best possible care.
Our Dentists
Dr. Rachel Montgomery
Dr. LaResea Woods
Dr. Elizabeth Scott
Dr. Peggy Chang
Dr. Sally Ok
Dr. Aleksandra "Allie" Dragojevic
Dr. Katya Basora-Rovira
Dr. Anthony Machani
Dr. Jonathan McNair
Dr. Clayton Fisher
Dr. Fareeda Bacchus
Dr. Sangeet Kalkat
Dr. Ken Zhou
Dr. Sarah Park
Dr. Sidharth Kannan
Our Orthodontists
Dr. Ashley Hill
Dr. Jacob Keller
Dr. Hani Alsibai
Dr. Leo Freitas
Dental Sealants FAQs
Why are dental sealants important for my child’s teeth?
Sealants are a great way to protect your child’s teeth against cavities, especially in the deep grooves of molars. It can be challenging to thoroughly clean those crevices, so sealants provide an extra layer of protection against tooth decay, promoting better dental health for life.
What’s the best age for my child to get dental sealants?
Dentists recommend applying dental sealants when your child’s permanent molars come in. This usually occurs between ages 6 and 12. Our dentists at Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces will guide you based on your child’s dental development.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last for several years with proper care. During your child’s routine checkups, our team will recommend reapplication only as needed.
Do dental sealants cause discomfort?
Applying dental sealants is a simple, quick, and painless process. Sealants are simply “painted on” the chewing surfaces of the back molars during a regular appointment, so your child will not experience discomfort, and no recovery time is needed.
Can dental sealants prevent all types of cavities?
Dental sealants are effective for preventing cavities on the chewing surfaces of your child’s back molars, but they don’t always prevent cavities from developing between their teeth. Sealants are “painted” onto the surfaces of your child’s molars, so regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are still essential for maintaining great oral hygiene.
Can dental sealants be applied to baby teeth?
Yes, dental sealants can be applied to baby teeth. Sealants can help protect baby teeth from cavities until they naturally fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth.
How do I care for my child’s teeth after they get sealants?
After sealants are applied to your child’s teeth, continue regular brushing and flossing to maintain optimal oral health. During dental visits, our team will check their sealants to make sure they’re still intact and working effectively.
Are dental sealants safe for children?
Absolutely! Dental sealants are safe and commonly used to lower the risk of tooth decay in young patients. Sealants are made from American Dental Association-approved materials and are non-toxic.
Can my child get dental sealants if they have braces?
Yes they can! Children who wear braces can benefit from dental sealants. Sealants are a great way to protect the back teeth from cavities during orthodontic treatment since it can be more challenging to thoroughly clean the teeth with braces.
Are children’s dental sealants covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover dental sealants, especially for children. Since sealants are considered preventive treatment, like regular check-ups and fluoride treatments, they’re often included in your plan’s benefits. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if dental sealants are covered in your plan.
How do I know if dental sealants are right for my child?
When you visit us for your child’s dental check-up, our pediatric dentist will evaluate your child's teeth and determine if dental sealants are the best option. If so, we'll apply them quickly during their regular visit. Schedule an appointment with the team at Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces, with locations throughout the Austin, TX, metro area.