Fluoride & Dental Sealants
At Crossroads Family Dental, our main focus is to stop tooth decay and gum disease before it starts. Preventive dentistry is beneficial for patients of all ages, but especially children. Establishing a strong foundation for your child’s oral health can ensure a lifetime of strong, beautiful teeth. In addition to regular dental exams and professional cleanings, fluoride treatment and tooth sealants are an important part of preventive dentistry.
Fluoride Treatment
There are two ways to receive fluoride—systemically and topically. Systemic fluorides are ingested through dietary supplements and fluoridated water. This type of fluoride strengthens your teeth from within. Topical fluorides are applied directly to your tooth enamel. Most toothpaste and mouthwashes contain fluoride, but professional fluoride varnishes are more effective because they offer a higher fluoride concentration and a longer contact time.
At Crossroads Family Dental our professional fluoride treatments are applied in the form of a concentrated varnish. Varnishes are applied directly to your teeth with a soft brush. After the treatment, you or your child will be asked to abstain from rinsing, eating, or drinking anything for a short period of time.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are another effective way to protect you or your child’s teeth. In fact, sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay in back teeth by nearly 80%. Sealants are resin coatings that are placed on the occlusal, or bite surface, of the permanent molars and premolars. Permanent teeth usually erupt between the ages of six and 12. The earlier your child receives a sealant, the earlier their teeth are protected from damaging acids.
The application of a dental sealant is a quick and painless process. First, Dr. Nicholas Berns will clean and dry the tooth. Then, the sealant liquid will be applied to the chewing grooves of the tooth. The goal is to protect these deep grooves that are difficult or sometimes even impossible to clean with a regular toothbrush. Once the sealant is in place, we will use a special curing light to harden the material.
Dental sealants can last for many years before they need to be reapplied. Adults may also receive dental sealants. There is no substitute for daily brushing and flossing, but dental sealants can prevent cavity-causing bacteria from settling on your teeth. Talk with Dr. Nicholas Berns to see if sealants are right for you or your family!
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Talk with Dr. Nicholas Berns or one of the hygienists about all your preventative needs including fluoride treatments and sealants. Call 219-865-4095 to schedule your appointment today!