Sealants Fluoride Treatments

Shelby Township MI

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You may be surprised to hear this, but the dental cavity is a highly contagious bacterial disease. The acids produced by the bacteria demineralize your teeth. The breeding ground for bacteria in the mouth is sugar – especially sucrose and fructose. The more sugar in your daily diet, the more acid the bacteria in your mouth produce. Acids damage the enamel and dentin first, and then the deeper parts of your teeth. You can “catch” tooth decay when you kiss, drink from the same bottle, or eat with the same cutlery. Untreated, it can not only damage the teeth but also lead to the development of heart, kidney, joint, and eye diseases. One of the most effective methods of caries prevention is sealants.

What are Teeth Sealants?

Sealants are thin plastic coatings used to protect your child’s back teeth. These teeth, which act as the main chewing surfaces, can easily trap bacteria and food particles that cause decay. Your back teeth can also be hard to clean through regular brushing and flossing. Dental sealants help promote good oral hygiene while acting as a protective shield. They are ideal for preventing decay on your child’s newly grown permanent teeth or stopping decay from damaging primary teeth. Sealants are one of our easiest treatments.

Our skilled dentist and dental team at Smiles in Shelby can apply dental sealants in a matter of minutes and will clean the tooth and use a gentle bonding liquid if necessary to create a texture to the tooth’s surface. This promotes a stronger bond. The sealant is then painted onto the surface of the tooth and allowed to harden. We offer dental sealants in Shelby Township, Michigan, as part of our effort to protect your child’s smile and promote good oral hygiene for a lifetime. While mostly used for children, some teenagers and adults may also qualify for sealants. If you would like more information about sealants, please call or visit our dental office today. We look forward to protecting your smile!

What is Fluoride Treatment?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been scientifically proven to prevent and shield against tooth decay. While fluoride is found in water and food supplies, our office may suggest an additional fluoride treatment if we feel it is necessary to protect your teeth and prevent tooth decay. In Shelby Township, Michigan, fluoride is most often used for children and adolescents who still have growing teeth. This is because fluoride bonds with developing tooth enamel to make it stronger. Fluoride also works for adult patients by acting as a protective barrier against food particles and bacteria that are prone to causing decay. It is generally applied topically onto your teeth through a:

  • Mouthwash – used daily at home
  • Gel – prescribed by Smiles in Shelby
  • Varnish – applied in the office at the end of your cleaning appointment
  • Toothpaste – 2 times a day, for 2 minutes

If necessary, systemic fluoride (in pill form) may also be suggested. Our team is committed to providing you and all of the members of your family with the treatments you need for a healthier smile. Generally, a fluoride varnish application is provided during your routine dental cleanings and exams.

What Makes Us Different

Latest

Technology

Our digital x-rays and impressions are designed for our patients’ comfort.

Flexible

Financing

Dental care is affordable with our interest-free financing options.

Digital

Scans

Our digital scans eliminate unpleasant, goopy impression material while increasing accuracy.

Same-Day

Treatment

We respect your time, and we offer same-day crowns and other treatments.

Electronic

Records

Your records are safe at our digital, paperless and eco-friendly dental office.

Weekend

Appointments

Friday evening and Saturday appointments are available because we care about convenience.

The nature of Fluoride

Fluoride is not found in free form in nature. It creates compounds that can be found in post-volcanic soils, water reservoirs, coal, and oil deposits. It also exists in water and cereal products, nuts, fish, and potatoes. Fluoride is used in medicine, mainly in dentistry, due to its anti-cavity properties.

Scientific research shows that fluoride ions inhibit the demineralization of tooth tissues and reduce the number of cariogenic bacteria, which is why teeth varnishing is performed in dental offices. Tooth sealants with active fluoride are used to coat the surface of the teeth. The varnish gradually dries up on the teeth, releasing the fluoride they contain. There are also all kinds of toothpaste, liquids, and gels containing fluoride.

If you are interested in learning more or have not seen the dentist for some time, we encourage you to contact us at Smiles in Shelby in Shelby Twp., MI today. Our caring dentist is eager to take care of you and make sure you have a healthy, beautiful smile for life!

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