Protecting Your Teeth From the Very Start
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatment is particularly beneficial for children, especially as their adult teeth come in. Fluoride helps combat tooth decay through a process called remineralization. Plaque and certain foods can erode tooth enamel by stripping away essential minerals. Fluoride treatments work to halt and reverse this damage, leading to stronger, decay-resistant enamel.
Dental Sealants
Molars have deep grooves and fissures on their chewing surfaces that can easily trap plaque and food particles, making them difficult to clean properly. When children’s new molars come in, applying dental sealants is crucial. Sealants act as a protective barrier over these vulnerable areas, preventing debris from entering and safeguarding the teeth against decay. This shield provides long-term protection, ensuring your child’s natural teeth stay healthy.
Why Opt for Sealants and Fluoride?
The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) emphasizes the importance of sealants as part of a comprehensive preventive dental program, which also includes nutritional counseling, optimal fluoride exposure, good oral hygiene, and regular dental check-ups. The CDA recommends using sealants on both primary and permanent teeth, based on a dentist’s risk assessment and diagnosis. Combined with other preventive measures, sealants play a crucial role in long-term oral health and preventing tooth decay.
Reduce Tooth Sensitivity
Enamel is the outer layer of a tooth, protecting the dentin, pulp, and nerve. Dentin provides structural support but does not shield the nerve from temperature changes or acidic and sticky foods. When enamel wears thin, teeth become more sensitive. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants help preserve enamel, keeping it strong and intact to protect the sensitive dentin from external factors.
Prevent and Reverse Decay
Worn-down enamel leads to decay and cavities. Exposed dentin increases the risk of infection, which can be painful and may require a root canal. Compromised enamel continues to deteriorate if not addressed. Fluoride treatments help rebuild and strengthen enamel, while sealants shield vulnerable areas from plaque build-up, preventing further decay and fortifying your teeth.
Save Money in the Long Run
Investing in preventive measures like fluoride treatments and sealants can save you from costly dental procedures later. These treatments are relatively inexpensive and can prevent tooth decay from worsening, ultimately avoiding the need for expensive dental work. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
The Fluoridation and Sealant Process
Fluoride treatments and sealants are key components of preventive care for maintaining your child’s oral health. These treatments help strengthen teeth and prevent decay. Fluoride is usually applied during your child’s annual dental cleaning and exam, while sealants are added as needed, typically when new molars come in or if a dentist identifies vulnerable areas on a tooth’s biting surface. Both are crucial for protecting your child’s teeth from future issues.
Fluoride Treatment
Our professionally administered fluoride treatment is stronger than over-the-counter options, providing better protection for your teeth. We apply foam or gel fluoride using upper and lower trays. This quick and simple procedure takes just a few minutes, typically performed right after your teeth cleaning. For maximum effectiveness, we recommend avoiding food and drink for 30 minutes afterward.
Dental Sealant Application
Applying dental sealants is painless and drill-free. The process starts with cleaning and drying the tooth, followed by the application of a mild acidic gel to slightly roughen the surface. The sealant is then applied to the tooth’s grooves and hardened using a special blue light. This ensures that the sealant fits comfortably, giving your child a natural-feeling bite while providing extra protection against decay.
Contact Us Today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
During your consultation, we’ll conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as your bite’s shape and condition. Our goal is to assess the overall look and function of your mouth before planning your treatment. We prioritize understanding your smile’s health and aesthetic, along with your personal goals, to create a tailored plan that helps you achieve your desired outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
After a fluoride treatment, it’s recommended to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into your teeth. This waiting period ensures that the treatment is as effective as possible, strengthening your enamel and providing optimal protection against decay. Eating or drinking too soon may wash away the fluoride, reducing its effectiveness.
Fluoride treatments are typically quick and efficient, usually taking just a few minutes to complete. After your teeth cleaning, fluoride is applied using foam or gel in trays that fit over your teeth. The entire process, from application to finish, is generally brief, making it a convenient addition to your routine dental visit.
Yes, fluoride treatments are safe when administered correctly. Dentists use controlled amounts of fluoride to strengthen enamel and prevent decay. If you have specific health concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist beforehand to ensure fluoride treatment is suitable for you.
Dental sealants can last for several years, typically up to 10 years. Their longevity depends on good oral care and regular dental visits. However, if sealants become chipped or worn over time, they may need to be repaired or replaced. Regular check-ups help ensure they continue providing effective protection against decay.
Dental sealants are generally not noticeable once applied. They are made from clear or tooth-coloured material that blends well with your natural teeth, ensuring that they protect your teeth without affecting your smile or appearance.
