Dental Sealants
As teeth develop, pits, fissures or deep grooves form on the surface of the tooth. The pits and fissures are the most cavity-prone areas, especially in children. Dr. Anas Najjar will carefully evaluate which teeth would benefit from dental sealants.
Dental sealants are a preventive, non-invasive dental procedure that helps to prevent cavities in Darien, IL. The sealant is a tough plastic material that is designed to bond with the tooth’s enamel and forms a shield against decay. Sealants are tooth-colored or white, so they are barely visible.
When children are around six years old, they will start to get their first adult molars in the back of their mouth. This makes it very difficult to keep these precious adult teeth clean. Liquid dental sealants are painted on the teeth to fill in all of the hard-to-reach crevices, so food particles can’t enter and start a cavity. Sealants can protect teeth from cavity-causing bacteria for many years.
What Are Pits and Fissures?
Pits and fissures are the most cavity-prone areas, accounting for over 50 percent of cavities among children. The deep grooves on the top of the tooth are called fissures. The point where these grooves cross each other, are called pits. Pits and fissures are a normal part of our tooth’s anatomy and come in different shapes and sizes. These deep areas are often the perfect environment to harbor and trap food and plaque.
Toothbrush bristles are often too wide to clean these tiny areas. As the food and bacteria collect and build up, a cavity is likely to develop. The enamel is frequently weaker and thinner in the pits and fissures, which increases the chance of a cavity. Once decay has formed and a cavity is detected, your doctor at NuWave Dental & Orthodontics must repair it and a dental sealant can no longer be placed.
How is a Dental Sealant Applied?
First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and then isolated, by placing a barrier of some type. This prevents the other teeth and tongue from coming into contact with the sealant. A thick liquid called etch is applied to the surface of the tooth, where the sealant will be placed. Etching is a process that helps the sealant bond more effectively to the tooth. After etching, the teeth are rinsed and dried. A primer is often applied as a liquid, which allows for better adhesion. When the tooth is completely dry, a sealant is applied to the tooth with a tiny brush or syringe-like applicator. The sealant flows deep into the pits and fissures. The sealant may harden with air exposure or by exposure to ultraviolet light.
Children often benefit from being told how the sealants will be “painted” on their tooth to protect them from plaque and cavities. They often better understand the process and are more prepared to listen carefully to the instructions of the dental professionals at NuWave Dental & Orthodontics, if they are informed.
Tips to Help Prevent Tooth Decay
- Oral hygiene! Follow your doctor’s recommendations of brushing at least two times a day for two full minutes.
- Avoid eating a lot of sugary and sticky foods. The longer food stays on the tooth, the more acids will be produced. As a result, sugary and sticky foods can cause more damage. Even healthy snacks, such as raisins and dried fruits, can cause tooth decay, if they are left on the surface of the tooth for a long period of time.
- Cut down on snacking between meals. This will help prevent plaque from producing acids and will reduce the time that your teeth are exposed to harmful acids.
- Consume more calcium. Calcium helps to strengthen the hard, outer layer (the enamel) of the tooth.
- Drink plenty of water! Water and saliva clean the mouth, by washing away food and debris. Saliva supplies high levels of calcium, fluoride and phosphate to the surface of the tooth.
- Use a toothpaste and mouthwash with fluoride. Fluoride helps make tooth surfaces harder and stronger.
- Visit Dr. Anas Najjar at least twice a year. Diagnosing decay in its early stage, can prevent unnecessary invasive treatments.
Contact NuWave Dental & Orthodontics in Darien, IL to schedule your next appointment today!
Fluoride Treatments
When used appropriately, fluoride is both safe and effective in preventing and controlling dental cavities near 60561. Fluoride is a mineral that is found naturally in water and many foods. Fluoride helps the tooth’s outer surface, the enamel, to stay strong and to fight against the acids that cause cavities and tooth decay. Decisions concerning the administration of fluoride are based on the unique needs of each patient, including the risks and benefits.
The AAPD encourages fluoride treatments for children and states that professional fluoride treatments are beneficial and best utilized as part of a comprehensive preventive program developed by your doctor at NuWave Dental & Orthodontics.
Systemic Fluoride vs. Topical Fluoride
Systemic fluoride is fluoride that is ingested into the body through consuming fluoridated water, fluoride supplements or foods and beverages with fluoride. Systemic fluoride enters the blood stream and is distributed throughout the body. It is then deposited into any unerupted and developing teeth. Systemic fluoride is also found in saliva, which continually bathes teeth and provides strength. It is very important for children and adults. However, it does not negate the recommendation for topical fluoride.
Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth and is absorbed by the tooth’s enamel layer. Most toothpastes and mouth rinses contain a small amount of fluoride that is a safe and effective concentration to fight cavities. These home care products are rinsed from the mouth and not swallowed.
Professional topical fluoride applications, such as foams or varnishes, are common after your dental cleaning in Darien, IL. They are administered by your doctor at NuWave Dental & Orthodontics and are usually left on for a few minutes. These topical fluorides are normally applied right after a cleaning, which can make them more effective because they aren’t being blocked by a layer of bacteria. They are able to reach the “soft” areas or starts of cavities and help re-mineralize them!
Is Fluoride Safe for My Family?
Fluoride is like any other nutrient. When it is used appropriately, it is both safe and effective for the entire family.
Fluoride has been proven to prevent and control decay in both adults and children. Nevertheless, products that contain fluoride should be stored out of the reach of children. When a child is brushing with fluoridated toothpaste or using another product with fluoride, they should always be supervised.
How Do I Know If I'm High Risk?
You may be at an increased risk for tooth decay if you:
- Have a history of recent or frequent cavities
- Do not floss
- Have gum recession
- Wear braces or other oral appliances
- Have less saliva due to medications, radiation or disease
- Eat frequent meals or snack all day
- Drink acidic and/or sugary drinks
- Have a dental anomaly
- Have a family member with a history of tooth decay
- Sip on acidic and/or sugary drinks and prolong the time they are in your mouth
