Sealants & Fluoride

At Posh Dental, we know that children can sometimes neglect to brush and floss their teeth. We also know that the best form of dentistry is preventative. That is why we offer dental sealants and fluoride treatments to all of our younger patients.

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are made from a tooth-colored resin material and applied to the occlusal (bite) surface of a tooth. Sealants are used for teeth in the posterior region of the mouth, namely, the molars and premolars. Many children find it difficult to clean the deep crannies that trap food and debris, making these teeth more prone to decay. To avoid decay, we use a sealant as a barrier between the tooth enamel and acidic bacteria.

A sealant is applied to the depressions and grooves in liquid form. Once the sealant is in place, we use a specialized curing light to harden the material and create a long-lasting bond.

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), suggests that children receive dental sealants as soon as the permanent molars and premolars erupt. Studies have shown that sealants can last between five and ten years. With sealants, your child can remain cavity-free and avoid tooth loss.

In some cases, we may recommend a sealant for a primary or baby tooth. A baby tooth holds space for the eventual eruption of a permanent tooth. When a baby tooth is lost prematurely, surrounding teeth may shift and leave little or no space for the permanent tooth. Severe decay can also be transferred to the permanent teeth before they erupt.

What is fluoride treatment?

Fluoride is also a crucial component to your child’s oral health. Besides using toothpaste containing fluoride, Posh Dental highly recommends professional fluoride treatments for all children, especially those prone to cavities. Fluoride can not only strengthen your child’s enamel; it can even reverse minor instances of decay. Every day, your teeth undergo the processes of demineralization and remineralization. During demineralization, bacteria found in plaque cause your enamel to lose vital minerals such as calcium and phosphate. During remineralization, certain foods and beverages help your enamel gain back these minerals. When you lose minerals at a disproportional rate, you will experience tooth decay. Fluoride treatments help us supplement the process of remineralization, by depositing large amounts of these minerals back into the enamel. Fluoride treatments only take a few minutes. It may be applied in gel, varnish, or foam form. After the treatment, your child should not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the teeth to fully absorb the fluoride and repair microscopic areas of decay. Fluoride treatments are usually recommended every six months.

The Importance of Preventive Dentistry

Establishing a solid foundation for your child’s teeth can lead to a lifetime of excellent oral health. If neglected, tooth decay and gum disease can lead to expensive restorative treatments. Gum disease has also been linked to other systematic health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure. Protect your child’s teeth with sealants and fluoride treatments!