Preventive Care

At Greenpoint Pediatric Dentistry, we offer much more than just six-month oral exams and teeth cleanings in Greenpoint. Dr. John Hansford specialize in preventive care, and keeping your child’s smile healthy as they grow. Learn more about our preventive services below, or by contacting us for an appointment.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments can be very useful for kids who are cavity-prone and have weak enamel. In this procedure, Dr. Jones or Dr. Hansford will apply a thin layer of fluoride-rich gel to your child’s teeth after a cleaning & oral exam. This fluoride strengthens and “remineralizes” the teeth, reversing minor decay and keeping your child’s teeth strong. Fluoride treatments are often recommended for kids every 3-6 months, depending on their needs.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a great option for fighting back against cavities. In this procedure, Dr. Jones or Dr. Hansford will apply a thin layer of clear dental resin to your child’s rear teeth. Then, a UV light is used to harden the resin, forming a transparent plastic barrier. This barrier stops bacteria, food particles, and acid from contacting the teeth directly, preventing the formation of cavities for up to 10 years.

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

SDF is a mixture of silver, ammonia, fluoride, and water that’s used as an alternative to fillings for baby teeth. When applied to a cavity, SDF destroys the bacteria and helps strengthen the weakened enamel. This stops the cavity from getting worse, and keeps your child’s baby tooth healthy until it falls out naturally. However, SDF does stain the tooth black permanently, which is one of the reasons why it’s not recommended for permanent teeth.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer is very uncommon in kids, but for peace of mind, Dr. Jones and Dr. Hansford will always examine your child’s mouth for signs of oral cancer, such as oral sores and lesions, during their teeth cleaning and oral exam. In the rare event that we notice a potential issue at Greenpoint Pediatric Dentistry, your child can get expert help right away.

Periodontal Care

Kids of all ages can be affected by periodontal (gum) disease, though it’s rarer in kids than it is in adults. Proper at-home dental hygiene is essential for preventing periodontal care. If your child does have gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) professional treatment such as a “deep cleaning” may be required.

In this treatment, Dr. Hansford or Dr. Jones will clean plaque and tartar away from between your child’s teeth and gums, and smooth out the roots of their teeth to eliminate bacteria. Along with antibacterial medication or mouth rinses, this is usually enough to reverse gingivitis completely.