Fluoride and Sealants
Ann Arbor, MI
At Greashaber Dentistry, we understand the importance of strong, healthy teeth. Every day, your teeth are exposed to acid attacks from oral bacteria, which are produced as the bacteria eat lingering sugars and other food particles in your mouth. Not only that, but certain foods and drinks can be damaging to your enamel as well. With fluoride and sealants, we can help you in the fight against tooth decay, and keep your teeth in top condition. While these treatments are usually used for children, who are the most vulnerable to cavities, anyone of any age can benefit from them.
Fluoride
Your teeth naturally contain an element known as fluoride, which helps to keep enamel strong and prevent against acid attacks. Every day, however, some of this mineral is lost, a process is known as demineralization. To remineralize your teeth, and keep them strong, fluoride needs to be replaced. You can purchase fluoridated oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwashes. Fluoride can also be found in some water supplies as well as certain foods. These levels, though, are often quite low. This is why we offer fluoride treatments in our office.
The treatment process is quite simple and completely pain-free. We apply gel, which contains fluoride, directly onto the surface of your teeth. The mineral absorbs right in. Because of how it works, it is important to keep in mind that you should not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes following treatment, which will help to provide optimal results.
Fluoride treatments are especially beneficial for young children, who have yet to grow in their adult teeth. Not only does it protect their baby teeth from cavities, but fluoride also collects on the gums, which helps to protect adult teeth as they erupt.
Adults can benefit just as much from fluoride, too. It helps to rebuild enamel and protect your teeth from acids. Treatments can be quite helpful for those who suffer from certain conditions, such as dry mouth, which promotes bacteria growth. They can also help those with braces or bridgework.
Dental Sealants
The chewing surfaces of your teeth contain cusps. These cusps create crevices, which can then trap food as you eat. Depending upon the depth of these crevices, your toothbrush may not be able to effectively remove everything trapped within. Bacteria can then gather here and cause cavities.
Sealants are a quick and painless way to cover the crevices between the cusps of your molars, creating a flat surface that is easily accessible to the bristles of your toothbrush. Made up of plastic and other materials, sealants are applied directly to the surface of your teeth. First, we thoroughly clean and dry your teeth. Next, we apply an acidic gel, which creates a rough surface for better adhesion. The gel is cleaned off, and your teeth dried again. The sealant is applied and dried with a special blue light.
Even though sealants are made up of plastic, they can withstand normal chewing forces. They can easily last for years but can be reapplied as needed.
Fluoride and sealants are an important tool in the fight against tooth decay. Contact Greashaber Dentistry today for more information, (734) 662-1113.
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