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Fluoride and Sealants
Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral naturally found in nature; it is a vital component to healthy teeth. Throughout the day, our teeth are constantly in a state of demineralization (when the calcium in the tooth microscopically dissolves) and remineralization (when the calcium is put back into the tooth). Once a tooth is demineralized, the primarily and best element to remineralize with the calcium is fluoride. Needless to say, it's essential for strong and healthy teeth!
Fluoride in drinking water
In city water sources, the level of fluoride is monitored so that just the right amount exists in the water. During childhood, too little of this mineral results in soft teeth that are prone to cavities and too much results in teeth that are discolored and often brown in appearance. If you drink city water at home, you and your family will most likely receive the adequate amount needed for strong and healthy teeth.
If you drink well water at home, speak with us at your next appointment, and we may recommend supplementing your water with tablets to ensure adequate fluoride, especially for children.
Fluoride Varnish for Children
We often provide children with an extra boost when their teeth are young and their oral hygiene skills might not be quite as thorough as an adult. During cleaning appointments, a fluoride coat, or varnish, is painted on the child’s teeth to give them a little extra help at preventing cavities.
Sealants
What are Sealants?
Sealants are a thin white coat that is placed into deep grooves on back teeth. Sealants are made of a similar material that is used in composite fillings. There have been some reports about BPA in dental sealants. Multiple studies have shown that by polishing the teeth after sealants are placed, any possible BPA from the sealants are removed, making sealants safe for the health of your child.
Who Needs Sealants?
Sealants are typically placed on any back teeth with deep grooves. It is best to place sealants just after the molars erupt into a child’s mouth.
Why Place Sealants?
By preventing deep grooves from accumulating food and plaque, cavities are prevented from forming on the biting surface of back teeth. Along with proper home care, sealants aid in preventing cavities from first forming on a tooth, and increase the likelihood that the child will keep that tooth for his or her entire life.
Have a question or want to make an appointment?
Are you interested in learning more about your teeth? Do you have dental health goals you would like to meet? We would be honored to explore that with you and help you find solutions.
