The Sealing Sunny Smiles Across Florida initiative is the Florida Department of Health’s school-based sealant program. The initiative offers preventive dental services to schools, head start centers, and early learning centers.
Tooth decay and cavities are common childhood diseases in the U.S., and dental sealants are the most effective way of preventing tooth decay and cavities in permanent molars. More than 80% of decay occurs in the permanent teeth of children. Sealants are thin coatings applied to the tooth surface, which can help stop this decay from happening.
Dental Services Include
Exams
Regular dental exams are crucial for maintaining your child’s oral health. We recommend bringing your child for an exam every six months, starting at the age of 1 and continuing up to the age of 20. These early and consistent visits help your child develop a positive and comfortable relationship with dental care.
During the initial exam, our dentist will take x-rays, perform a thorough visual examination, and check for any signs of inflammation, plaque, tartar, or cavities. If any issues are discovered, we will recommend appropriate solutions to restore your child’s teeth to a clean and healthy state. After the comprehensive exam, we will schedule regular evaluation and treatment appointments as necessary. As general dentists, we will also provide referrals to dental specialists if your child requires more advanced care.
Cleaning
Even with diligent brushing, flossing, and mouthwash use at home, your child may miss some areas of their mouth. Regular professional teeth cleanings ensure that your child’s teeth and gums remain healthy. Our qualified dental staff will remove any hard deposits, called calculus or tartar, that cannot be eliminated with a toothbrush or floss. We will also provide tips on improving at-home oral care.
Children can sometimes experience gingival swelling, known as gingivitis. Routine cleanings not only help prevent cavities but also maintain your child’s gum health. By establishing a commitment to regular dental cleanings, you are setting your child up for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.
Sealants
Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease, often leading to pain, school absenteeism, and poor school performance. We offer dental sealants as a preventive measure to protect your child’s teeth from decay. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that keep food and germs out of the chewing surfaces of the teeth, effectively reducing the risk of cavities.
Sealants are typically applied to the back teeth, known as molars and premolars, as soon as they appear in the mouth, usually around the age of five or six. The application process is quick and painless. First, the chewing surfaces of the teeth are cleaned to help the sealant adhere properly. Then, the sealant is painted into the grooves of the chewing surface, where it bonds to the tooth. A special light is used to harden the sealant. Sealants generally last about five years or longer and should be checked annually.