Protecting your teeth from the very start
Fluoride Treatment
Ideal for children, fluoride supports the strengthening of enamel as adult teeth come in. It helps prevent cavities by encouraging the restoration of essential minerals lost due to acids from plaque and food. This process reinforces enamel, making teeth less prone to decay.
Dental Sealants
Molars have natural grooves that can trap food and plaque, leading to decay. Sealants, applied when new molars emerge, provide a shield over these surfaces, blocking harmful debris and safeguarding these hard-to-clean areas from cavities.
Why opt for sealants and fluoride?
Sealants are an essential part of preventive dental care, applied selectively to primary and permanent teeth based on a dentist’s evaluation of risk factors. They play an important role in a comprehensive care plan, which also includes proper nutrition, fluoride use, good oral hygiene, and regular visits to the dentist, as recommended by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA).
Reduce tooth sensitivity
The enamel acts as a protective layer for teeth, shielding the underlying dentin, pulp, and nerve. While dentin provides structure, it doesn’t guard against temperature changes or exposure to acidic or sticky foods. When enamel wears down, sensitivity increases. Sealants and fluoride treatments help fortify enamel, reducing exposure to external irritants and protecting the sensitive dentin beneath.
Prevent and reverse decay
Weakened enamel can continue to deteriorate, eventually leading to cavities. Exposed dentin not only causes discomfort but also raises the risk of painful infections that could require more extensive procedures, like root canals. Fluoride strengthens enamel, while sealants protect vulnerable areas, helping to stop decay and maintain healthier teeth.
Save money in the long run
Preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and sealants, is a cost-effective solution for avoiding more expensive dental procedures later. By addressing potential problems early, you can save money and preserve your oral health for the long term.
The Fluoridation and Sealant Process
Fluoride is generally included during your child’s yearly cleaning and examination, while sealants are applied as needed, often after new molars erupt or if specific areas of concern are noted on the biting surfaces of teeth.
Fluoride Treatment
In-office fluoride treatments are much more concentrated than store-bought alternatives, offering enhanced protection. These treatments are usually administered as a gel or foam placed in custom trays that fit over the upper and lower teeth. The application takes only a few minutes at the end of the cleaning, and patients are advised to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterward to ensure the treatment is fully effective.
Dental Sealant Application
The sealant application process is straightforward, painless, and does not involve drilling or anaesthesia. The tooth is first cleaned and dried, followed by the application of a mild acidic gel to prepare the surface for bonding. After the gel is rinsed off and the tooth is dried again, the sealant is applied to the grooves of the tooth and cured with a special blue light. The procedure is quick and leaves the tooth protected while maintaining a natural bite.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your dentist or hygienist will advise waiting 30 minutes after a fluoride treatment to eat or drink. This allows the fluoride to fully absorb into the enamel, ensuring you get the most benefit from the treatment.
This naturally occurring mineral is found in some water supplies and is known for its ability to prevent cavities. Researchers first observed its benefits when communities with fluoridated water showed reduced tooth decay. Today, fluoride is a trusted component of dental care and water systems worldwide, providing safe and effective protection for teeth over generations.
Sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to act as a protective barrier. They cover deep grooves and crevices, helping to prevent plaque and food buildup that can lead to cavities.
When paired with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, sealants can remain effective for up to 10 years. Brushing, flossing, and reducing acidic food and drink consumption, especially before bed, can help prolong their lifespan. If a sealant becomes damaged or worn, it can be repaired easily by a dentist or hygienist.