Sealants and Fluoride Treatment

Dental Sealants

Molars have intricate grooves and fissures that can easily trap plaque and food particles, making them difficult to clean thoroughly. When children get their new molars, applying dental sealants can be a game-changer. These sealants create a protective barrier that keeps debris out, safeguarding their natural teeth from decay. By shielding these vulnerable areas, dental sealants help maintain healthy, cavity-free molars.

Why Opt for Sealants and Fluoride?

Choosing sealants and fluoride treatments is a smart decision for maintaining strong, healthy teeth. The American Dental Association endorses the selective use of sealants for both primary and permanent teeth based on a thorough risk assessment and diagnosis by your dentist. According to the Canadian Dental Association (CDA), sealants are a vital part of a comprehensive preventive program that includes nutritional counseling, optimal fluoride exposure, good oral hygiene, and regular dental examinations.

Reduce Tooth Sensitivity

Your tooth’s enamel is its first line of defense, protecting the underlying dentin, pulp, and nerve. While dentin supports the structure of your tooth, it doesn’t shield the nerve from hot, cold, acidic, or sticky foods. When enamel becomes thin and worn, your teeth become sensitive. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants help maintain the integrity of your enamel, ensuring it continues to protect your dentin from everyday wear and tear. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without discomfort.

Prevent and Reverse Decay

Worn enamel is vulnerable to decay, which can lead to cavities and infections that are both painful and costly to treat. Fluoride treatments help rebuild and strengthen enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection by preventing plaque and food particles from getting trapped in the grooves of your molars. By stopping decay early and protecting your teeth, these treatments help you avoid more invasive and expensive procedures down the line, such as root canals or crowns.

Save Money in the Long Run

Investing in preventive care now can save you significant amounts of money in the future. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants are relatively inexpensive compared to the costs associated with treating advanced tooth decay and other dental issues. By preventing cavities and maintaining strong enamel, you reduce the need for more costly dental work, ensuring your oral health stays in top condition without breaking the bank.

The Fluoridation and Sealant Process

Protecting and strengthening your teeth starts early with our fluoride treatments and dental sealants at our San Diego dental office.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatments are usually added to your child’s annual teeth cleaning and exam. Our professional fluoride treatments are stronger than store-bought options, ensuring better protection against tooth decay. We apply a fluoride foam or gel using custom trays for both upper and lower teeth, a process that takes just a few minutes at the end of your cleaning. To maximize the benefits, we recommend avoiding eating or drinking for 30 minutes after the treatment.

Dental Sealant Application

Applying dental sealants is quick and completely painless—no drilling or numbing needed. Our dentist will carefully clean and dry the tooth, then apply a mild acidic gel to slightly roughen the surface for a stronger bond. After rinsing off the gel, we press the sealant into the grooves of the tooth and use a special blue light to harden it. The result is a smooth, protective coating that feels natural and comfortable, keeping your molars safe from cavities and decay.