Tooth decay could cause discomfort, and lead to infected teeth too. There are a number of ways to avoid the onset of cavities, including the placement of our barely visible dental sealants, which helps kids and adults alike avoid cavities and enjoy strong, healthy smiles. In today’s blog, your Allen, TX, dentist talks about how we place dental sealants.
The Causes of Tooth Decay
The outside of each tooth is coated in enamel, a powerful protective layer that helps protect teeth from injury and exposure to harmful bacteria. However, if the enamel is weakened by poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup, or damaged in an accident that cracks or chips the enamel, this exposes the enamel and allows a cavity to form. The decay will grow more severe with time, increasing the risk of infection! Your kids could experience tooth sensitivity and toothaches, and the infection could even increase the risk of tooth loss! However, we have preventive treatments to help avoid the onset of tooth decay.
Dental Sealants
Kids often have trouble reaching the molars in the rear of the mouth when they brush and floss. As a result, food particles could remain stuck between these teeth. Bacteria then breaks them down, elevating oral acidity and coating the teeth in plaque, which soon lead to cavities. But with sealants, we place a special acrylic coating on the rear teeth so food particles cannot become trapped between these teeth. The sealants will stay in place for several years, providing protection for between 5 and 10 years on average. There is no need to remove them, as they simply wear away with time.
Fluoride Treatments
Along with dental sealants, we could apply a fluoride varnish every six months as part of your child’s checkup and cleaning visit. Fluoride actually strengthens the outer enamel to protect teeth from enamel erosion and the onset of tooth decay and dental infection. For this same reason, we suggest drinking tap water and using a toothpaste that contains fluoride, as this helps protect smiles of all ages. In addition, you can help your kids enjoy better oral health by making sure they brush and floss daily, eat a healthier diet, and see the dentist every six months. If you have any questions about our approach to children’s dentistry and preventive dental care, then contact our team today to learn more!
Talk To Your Allen, TX Dentist About Avoiding Cavities
We want to help you and your family enjoy a healthy smile, and take steps to protect teeth from the onset of cavities. To find out more about keeping your entire families’ smiles free of tooth decay, contact your Allen, TX, dentist, Dr. Torrens-Parker, by calling 469-342-6644.
