Protecting Your Teeth from the Very Start
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment is especially beneficial for children. As their adult teeth emerge, fluoride helps prevent tooth decay through remineralization. This process combats acids from plaque and food that can erode enamel by replenishing essential minerals. By strengthening tooth enamel, fluoride makes teeth more resistant to decay and damage.
Dental Sealants
Molars, with their numerous grooves and fissures, are prone to trapping acidic plaque and food particles that can be hard to clean. Dental sealants are applied to these new molars to block out debris, safeguard natural teeth, and prevent decay. Sealants provide a durable protective layer for these vulnerable areas.
Why Opt for Sealants and Fluoride?
Sealants and fluoride are endorsed by the American Dental Association for their crucial role in dental health. Sealants are recommended based on a risk assessment and diagnosis by a dentist, ensuring they are used effectively for both primary and permanent teeth. The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recognizes sealants as a key element in a comprehensive preventive program. This program also includes nutritional counseling, optimal fluoride exposure, good oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups, all contributing to the overall health and protection of your teeth.
Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth enamel is the outermost layer, protecting the underlying dentin, pulp, and nerve. When enamel thins and wears down, it leaves the dentin exposed, which can lead to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, acidic, and sticky foods. Fluoride treatments and sealants help maintain enamel strength, preventing sensitivity by keeping the enamel in optimal condition and safeguarding the sensitive dentin beneath.
Prevent and Reverse Decay
Worn enamel can lead to ongoing decay, which may eventually cause cavities. Exposed dentin not only increases sensitivity but also heightens the risk of infection, potentially requiring invasive treatments like root canals. Fluoride treatments and sealants rebuild and protect enamel, helping to prevent further decay and strengthen your teeth against plaque build-up.
Save Money in the Long Run
Investing in preventive measures like fluoride treatments and sealants is cost-effective compared to addressing advanced dental issues. By preventing enamel erosion and tooth decay now, you can avoid more expensive and extensive treatments later on.
The Fluoridation and Sealant Process
Fluoride treatments are generally integrated into your child’s yearly dental cleaning and examination. This ensures that the teeth receive an additional boost of protection against cavities. Sealants are applied based on individual needs, commonly after new molars come in or when specific areas on the biting surfaces show signs of potential issues.
Fluoride Treatment
Our fluoride treatment is significantly more concentrated than what’s available in stores and is applied by our dental team in-office. The procedure involves using foam or gel in custom trays for both the top and bottom teeth. This treatment takes only a few minutes to complete after your regular cleaning. To maximize its effectiveness, we advise avoiding food and drinks for 30 minutes post-treatment.
Dental Sealant Application
Applying dental sealants is a simple, pain-free procedure. No drilling or anesthetics are required. We start by thoroughly cleaning and drying the tooth. A gentle acidic gel is then used to slightly roughen the tooth surface, enhancing the bond of the sealant. After rinsing off the gel, the tooth is dried again before the sealant is applied into the grooves. A special blue light is used to set the sealant. Once done, your bite will remain natural and comfortable.
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 receiving a fluoride treatment, it’s important to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes. This waiting period allows the fluoride to fully penetrate and strengthen your tooth enamel, ensuring it can effectively protect against decay.
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in various water sources. Research has shown that communities with fluoridated water experience lower rates of tooth decay. Over the years, fluoride has been integrated into dental care practices to help prevent dental issues. Fluoride treatments are widely used and have a long history of safety and effectiveness in preventing tooth decay globally.
Dental sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to create a protective barrier. They shield the grooves and fissures of these teeth from decay by preventing food particles and plaque from getting trapped and causing cavities.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, dental sealants can remain effective for up to 10 years. To maintain their longevity, brush and floss regularly, and limit consumption of acidic foods and drinks. If a sealant becomes chipped or worn, it can be easily repaired by your dentist or hygienist.
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