Protecting Your Teeth from the Very Start
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments are crucial, especially for kids. They assist in preventing decay as new adult teeth come in by enhancing remineralization. The enamel can be weakened by acids from plaque and food, which strip away vital minerals. Fluoride helps rebuild and strengthen the enamel, making it more resistant to future damage.
Dental Sealants
Molars often have deep grooves that can trap food and plaque, making them tough to clean. When children get their new molars, applying dental sealants can help prevent these areas from collecting debris and protect against decay. Sealants create a barrier, safeguarding these vulnerable parts of the teeth.
Why Opt for Sealants and Fluoride?
Sealants and fluoride are endorsed by the American Dental Association for their preventive benefits. Sealants are recommended for both primary and adult teeth based on a dentist’s evaluation of individual risk. They play a vital role in a well-rounded preventive care strategy, which also includes good nutrition, sufficient fluoride, proper oral hygiene, and regular dental visits, as highlighted by the Canadian Dental Association.
Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
The outer layer of your tooth, known as enamel, covers the underlying dentin, pulp, and nerve. Dentin provides support but doesn’t shield the nerve from temperature changes or acidic and sticky foods. When enamel becomes worn or thin, sensitivity can increase. Using fluoride and sealants helps keep enamel strong, thereby protecting the dentin and reducing sensitivity to external factors.
Prevent and Reverse Decay
When enamel wears down, it can lead to ongoing decay and eventually cavities. This not only increases tooth sensitivity but also raises the risk of infection, which might necessitate a root canal to save the tooth. Fluoride treatments and sealants help restore and protect enamel, preventing decay and reinforcing the teeth.
Save Money in the Long Run
Investing in fluoride and sealants now can save you from more expensive treatments later. These preventive measures are cost-effective compared to the higher expenses associated with treating advanced tooth decay.
The Fluoridation and Sealant Process
Sealants are often applied to new molars as they emerge or if the dentist notices areas on the chewing surfaces that need extra protection. Fluoride treatments are typically included during your child’s annual dental visit and cleaning. These treatments work together to keep your child’s teeth strong and healthy.
Fluoride Treatment
Our fluoride treatments are more potent than those you can purchase over-the-counter, thanks to professional application in our office. This treatment typically involves applying foam or gel to your upper and lower teeth using trays, and it’s completed in just a few minutes after your cleaning. For optimal results, we advise that you refrain from eating or drinking for 30 minutes following the treatment.
Dental Sealant Application
Applying dental sealants is a simple, pain-free procedure. It doesn’t involve any drilling or anesthesia. The process starts with cleaning and drying the tooth. We then use a mild acidic gel to make the tooth surface slightly rough, which helps the sealant adhere. After rinsing off the gel and drying the tooth again, we apply the sealant into the grooves and use a special blue light to set it. Once done, your bite should feel completely natural.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
After a fluoride treatment, it’s important to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes. This waiting period allows the fluoride to fully absorb into the enamel and maximize its protective benefits. Consuming food or beverages too soon can dilute or wash away the fluoride, reducing its effectiveness in strengthening your teeth and preventing decay.
Yes, fluoride treatment is very safe when administered by a dental professional. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. The amounts used during professional treatments are carefully controlled to ensure safety and effectiveness. For most people, fluoride treatments are a key part of maintaining good oral health. If you have specific concerns or conditions, it’s always a good idea to discuss them with your dentist to ensure that fluoride is the right choice for you.
Dental sealants are used to protect the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars and premolars) from cavities. They act as a protective barrier by sealing the grooves and pits where food and bacteria can get trapped and cause decay. This thin, plastic coating is especially beneficial for children and teenagers, as their molars can have deep grooves that are hard to clean effectively. Sealants help keep these vulnerable areas clean and reduce the risk of cavities.
Dental sealants generally last between 5 to 10 years. Their durability depends on factors such as your dental hygiene, eating habits, and the wear and tear on your teeth. Regular dental check-ups will help ensure that the sealants remain intact and effective. If they start to wear away or chip, your dentist can easily replace them to continue protecting your teeth.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
