Encino, CALifornia
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make sure my child doesn't continue to get cavities?
Preventing cavities largely comes down to good oral hygiene and healthy dietary habits. Encourage your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and to floss daily. This removes plaque and prevents it from hardening into calculus. Try to limit the frequency of sugary foods and drinks in your child's diet, as these provide food for cavity-causing bacteria. Make sure your child drinks plenty of water throughout the day. Also, ensure your child has regular dental visits. Not only does this allow for professional cleanings to remove any plaque or tartar build-up, but checkups also enable early detection and treatment of cavities, preventing them from becoming bigger problems. Lastly, consider preventive treatments like dental sealants, which provide a protective barrier against cavities.
My child is nervous about getting dental treatment. How can you make it comfortable for them?
It's completely normal for children to feel nervous about dental treatments. That's why we focus on creating a friendly and welcoming environment, with a team that's trained to ease your child's fears. We explain all procedures in a child-friendly way, so they know what to expect. In addition, we offer a range of distraction techniques like movies and music, to help divert their attention. For children who have higher levels of anxiety, we also offer safe and effective sedation dentistry options. These methods ensure a calm and comfortable experience for your child, making their dental visits more enjoyable and less stressful.
What causes cavities?
Cavities, also known as dental caries, are caused by a combination of factors. The main culprit is a type of bacteria in your child’s mouth that thrives on sugars and starches in food. These bacteria produce acids that attack the tooth enamel, creating holes or cavities over time. Regular snacking or sipping on sugary drinks provides a constant supply of acids that continue the attack on the tooth enamel. Poor oral hygiene, where teeth aren't cleaned well or regularly, also contributes to cavity formation as it allows plaque - a sticky film of bacteria - to build up and harden on teeth.