Caring for Your Teeth

Dental Sealants

A thin coating painted on the chewing surface of teeth – typically molars – dental sealants can prevent cavities (tooth decay) for a long time. Often, many years. The shield that sealants provide blocks out food and bacteria, protecting the surfaces from cavities. 

We apply sealants to the molars because, compared to front teeth, they contain grooves, pits and fissures. These natural imperfections make them uniquely susceptible to bacteria and decay.

Applied to permanent teeth that are cavity-free, sealants leave the surface of the tooth with a more uniform texture, easier to clean and keep clean. For baby teeth, we only recommend sealants for individuals who are especially cavity-prone.

How are sealants applied?

It’s important that sealants are applied only to teeth that are clean and dry. Your dentist will prepare your teeth for the sealant treatment before applying a special solution that will help the sealant bond to the tooth. Once the sealant is applied, your dentist will rinse and dry your teeth again. 

More than just brushing

When you have your teeth cleaned at our offices, we do a lot more than simply give them a polish. We meticulously remove any plaque and tartar buildup (hard deposits below the gum line). Troublesome plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease – the number one cause of adult tooth loss.

What is dental plaque? It’s bacteria – a living, breathing organism. When it is left untreated, it can lead to significant damage to your teeth and gums. Plaque is often the cause of bleeding gums when you only floss occasionally. 

However, during one of our cleanings, we remove buildup that you missed during your daily routine or that you can’t see. Need help? We have a wonderful team of friendly and experienced hygienists who are more than happy to demonstrate to you how to brush your teeth and floss for optimal oral health!

Fluoride

Consider fluoride a coat of armour for your teeth! During one of our teeth cleaning procedures, we provide fluoride varnish to protect and harden the enamel of your teeth. Fluoride increases the enamel’s resistance of your teeth, protecting them from  harmful bacteria and acids that can lead to tooth decay and sensitivity.

Fluoride is a fast and painless procedure – one of the easiest treatments you can have at our clinic! 

DIY: tooth enamel protection

To help protect your tooth enamel at home, it’s critical that you rinse and brush your teeth after every meal. It’s especially important if you eat or drink highly acidic foods and beverages – coffee, tea, cola, candy, and even pickles! 

It’s so common for our tap water and some foods to get treated with fluoride. However, this isn’t something to take for granted – it, alone, won’t protect your teeth from decay. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride and brush with it regularly to keep your teeth healthy and strong between dentist visits.