Safeguarding Your Teeth Right from the Beginning
Fluoride Applications
Fluoride treatments are particularly advantageous for children, aiding in the healthy development of adult teeth by combating cavities through the process of remineralization. This essential function helps restore minerals lost from enamel due to the effects of plaque acids and sugary diets. By reversing this mineral loss, fluoride strengthens the enamel, making teeth more resilient to decay.
Tooth Sealants
The uneven surfaces of molars, with their grooves and pits, can trap food particles and plaque, making them difficult to clean effectively. When children’s molars start to come in, applying dental sealants can protect these vulnerable areas by preventing debris buildup. Acting as a shield, sealants help preserve natural teeth and reduce the risk of decay in hard-to-reach spots.
Choosing Sealants and Fluoride: The Benefits
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) advocates for the prudent application of dental sealants on both baby and adult teeth, following an assessment by a dental professional to determine individual risk factors. Sealants form an important part of a well-rounded dental care plan, which also includes the use of fluoride, maintaining good oral hygiene, healthy dietary habits, and regular visits to the dentist.
Minimizing Tooth Discomfort
The outermost layer of teeth, known as enamel, serves as a barrier that protects the underlying dentin, pulp, and nerve tissues. While dentin offers support to the tooth structure, it does not shield the nerve from sensations caused by temperature changes or certain foods. As enamel wears down, sensitivity may increase. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants work to preserve the enamel’s durability, keeping the delicate dentin safeguarded from external irritants.
Halting and Reversing Tooth Decay
When enamel deteriorates, cavities can develop, leading to sensitivity and a heightened risk of infections that might require treatments like root canals. Fluoride strengthens and restores weakened enamel, while sealants form a barrier to block plaque and debris from gathering in hard-to-clean areas. Together, they help prevent decay and protect teeth.
Economical Benefits Over Time
Opting for preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and sealants, is a cost-effective choice. By addressing potential dental issues early, these measures can help avoid expensive treatments for advanced decay, making prevention a smart financial decision for long-term oral health.
The Process of Adding Fluoride and Applying Sealants
Fluoride treatments are typically included in your child’s annual dental check-up and cleaning. Sealants are applied when needed, usually when new molars come in or if the dentist notices areas that could be at higher risk for decay on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
Fluoride Application
The fluoride treatments we offer in-office are stronger than the over-the-counter alternatives, administered by trained professionals. This process typically involves applying a foam or gel to a tray that fits comfortably over the upper and lower teeth. It’s a quick procedure performed after the dental cleaning is complete. To maximise the fluoride’s effectiveness, patients are asked not to eat or drink for 30 minutes after the treatment.
Sealant Procedure
The application of dental sealants is a simple, painless process that does not require any drilling or anaesthesia. The procedure begins with the dentist thoroughly cleaning and drying the tooth. A mild acidic solution is then applied to the surface to create a texture that ensures the sealant bonds effectively. After a short time, the solution is rinsed off, the tooth is dried again, and the sealant is carefully applied to the grooves. A curing light is used to harden the sealant, which won’t affect the comfort of the bite or the way the teeth feel.
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
This dental procedure involves applying a high concentration of fluoride to the teeth. It is crucial because fluoride strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It can also reverse early signs of tooth decay by remineralizing areas where enamel has begun to deteriorate.
Children and teenagers benefit greatly from fluoride, as their developing teeth are more susceptible to cavities. However, adults with a history of dental decay, dry mouth, gum disease, or those who wear braces can also experience advantages from fluoride treatments.
The recommended frequency for fluoride treatments varies based on an individual’s risk of cavities. For those considered at moderate to high risk, treatments are usually suggested every 6 to 12 months. People with a higher risk may need more frequent treatments, possibly every 3 to 6 months.
When performed by a trained professional, fluoride treatments are generally safe. However, excessive fluoride exposure, particularly in children under 8, may lead to dental fluorosis, which appears as white streaks or lines on the teeth. The professional application of fluoride helps minimize this risk.
Daily brushing and flossing cannot be replaced by fluoride treatments. These treatments provide extra protection in addition to your regular oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily are necessary for maintaining optimal dental health.
Learn of the many ways we've enhanced the smiles and dental experiences of so many clients in the St. Thomas area.
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Really Accessible
Amazing Implant Experience
Fantastic Dental Service
