Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of MichiganDrs. Delaney, Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker, and Associates

Keep Tooth Decay Away

The Most Chronic Disease According to NewsUSA, tooth decay is the most common chronic

disease in the US amongst children – this is a very surprising fact, as it is such a preventable problem.

Tooth decay is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Some bacteria snacks on sugars common to many foods we eat into an acidic byproduct which causes the teeth to decay over time. These bacteria can even be spread from child to child or parent to child in simple ways like the sharing of cups, straws, or utensils.

If left to run amok, the bacteria can damage the teeth to the point where a number of problems including pain, trouble chewing, trouble speaking, or orthodontic space loss can occur. Any of these problems can interfere with a child’s ability to perform in school as well as in many social situations.

Keep Decay Away Luckily, there are a number of ways to keep your child’s teeth

healthy and free of decay: Practice good and diligent daily oral care Start dental check-ups from the age of 12 months Take your child to see the dentist once every six months for a

regular check-upBe sure to ask your dental care provider about the specifics of your

child’s health Use a “fluoride varnish” on teeth, which is fluoride painted onto

the surface of teeth. This strengthens enamel and makes it more resistant to acid and the cavities acid causes.

Consider the use of dental sealants, which can be applied to teeth to keep susceptible cracks and fissures protected from decay

Questions? Concerns?If you have any questions about the steps you can take to

prevent tooth decay in your child, feel free to reach out to a member of our exceptional dental staff.

Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of Michigan, the offices of Drs. Delaney, Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker and associates has specialized in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics since 1968. Our family-friendly office gives patients and families a more comfortable and consistent experience with dentistry from the very beginning. The pediatric dentists treat children from newborn to 18 years of age while our orthodontists provide care for both children and adults, including being an Invisalign preferred provider. The ability to treat all special needs patients reaches beyond our facility, which has treatment rooms available for children who require additional privacy. Valued hospital affiliations allow dental services to be performed at DMC Children’s Hospital and St. John’s Hospital Macomb when needed. Our specialists are also on staff at Henry Ford and Beaumont hospitals.

About Us

Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontic Specialists of MichiganDrs. Delaney, Plunkett, Ralstrom, Makowski, Thanasas, Ker, and Associates

39400 Garfield Rd., Suite 200Clinton Township, MI 48038

586-286-0700www.mychildsteeth.com