pediatric dentist

ACCORDING TO THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF PEDIATRICS, TOOTH DECAY is one of our most common, modern-day chronic diseases. In fact, by the time children begin kindergarten, 40 percent have some kind of tooth decay! Remember, just because your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews aren’t complaining about tooth pain (and their teeth “look” OK), it doesn’t necessarily mean their teeth are OK.

Fall is a great time to assess your health goals and get back on track after a leisurely summer. Here at our practice we want to remind you how important your routine dental care is during your orthodontic treatment period. While we’re making your smile more beautiful, you need to be sure your teeth, gums, and entire mouth stay as healthy as possible. Be sure your regular dental checkups are part of your back-to-school checklist.

What Your Dentist Will Typically Include In A Regular Checkup Or Back-To-School Exam:

Here are some of the typical components of regular checkups and back-to-school exams:

1. Thorough Cleaning: Professional cleanings help prevent gum disease—keeping your teeth healthier, longer.
2. Checking For Cavities: Take care of cavities before they become bigger problems, leading to pain and tooth loss.
3. Checking Existing Dental Work: That includes fillings, crowns, sealants, etc.
4. Examining Oral Tissue & Jaw Function: Early detection helps prevent oral cancer and related problems.
5. Fluoride Application: For cavity prevention.

Important Things You Can Do

1. Keep orthodontic work clean! Brush twice a day. Brush gently and pay special attention to your gum line.
2. Teach your entire family the good habit of flossing each day.
3. Eat healthier snack foods such as fresh fruits and veggies.
4. Limit sugary snacks & high-carb foods. The bacteria that cause tooth decay love simple sugars—especially those in treats.
5. If you like to chew gum, choose sugar-free options.
6. Always talk with our team if you notice any unusual oral health changes or problems with your orthodontic appliances.

A big part of our role is helping parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts better monitor children’s oral (and overall) health. Preventative dental care is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for your family! So be sure to keep your regular appointments.

Thanks for being our valued orthodontic patient! Call us at Gorczyca Orthodontics 925-757-9000 if you need a dentist or pediatric dentist in the Antioch, California East Contra Costa County Area. We are located at 5201 Deer Valley Road in Antioch right behind Deer Valley High School. Thank you for choosing Gorczyca Orthodontics for your orthodontic needs. Your smile is our inspiration!

We look forward to seeing you at your next visit!

DENTAL SEALANTS PROTECT your teeth from cavities. This is why it is important for children and even adults to get clear, white, or shaded sealants placed in the pits and fissures of their adult teeth.

Sealants Can Be Placed At An Early Age

Sealants can be placed in back permanent teeth as early as age 5. It is best to place sealants as early as the permanent first and second molars, and permanent first and second premolars erupt into the mouth. Sealants do not show when you smile and are easy to have placed in your mouth. Sealants can protect up to 80% of your tooth surface from decay.

Sealants Last A Long Time, But Still Need Replacing

Sealants can last up to 10 years. It may become necessary to have your sealants replaced. This is usually done by a general dentist or a pediatric dentist. Most insurance plans include benefits for the placement of dental sealants.

At Gorcyzca Orthodontics, we recommend placement of sealants prior to orthodontic treatment. We want all of our patients to remain cavity free for a lifetime.

Have Questions? Let Us Know!

If you have questions about your teeth or sealants, visit us at Gorczyca Orthodontics in Antioch, California. Find us at www.clubbraces.com or call us at (925) 757-9000 for a complimentary exam.

Don't leave your permanent teeth unprotected from dental decay. Protect them today with dental sealants.