Lake Orion, Michigan 48360
(248) 693-6213
Dental Sealants
Many people have deep pits and grooves in their teeth where bacteria and food particles can hide and cause decay. Children with poor brushing habits may also develop decay on hard-to-reach molars. For situations like these, dental sealants offer a means of protecting molar and premolar chewing surfaces from decay. Recognized by the American Dental Association as a key means of cavity prevention, dental sealants are simply a thin plastic film that can be applied to teeth.
First, we identify and fill any spots of decay, then prepare your teeth with a cleaning and etching solution. After about 15 seconds, we thoroughly rinse the solution, dry the surface, coat your teeth with the sealant, and harden it with a curing light. The entire procedure is fast, easy, and comfortable. It takes about 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the number of teeth to seal.
Dental sealants create an impenetrable physical barrier for small food particles and cavity-causing bacteria, making them highly effective in preventing tooth surface decay and the resulting cavities. Sealants can last up to ten years. Most insurance companies only cover sealant procedures at a minimal level, but the good news is that insurance companies seem to be recognizing this technique's value as a preventive measure that will help reduce future dental costs and more aggressive treatments.
Fluoride
Most US tap water contains fluoride today. However, most bottled water doesn't. Many people have fluoride deficiency, which puts teeth at a greater risk for getting cavities. In some cases, parents think that they are protecting their babies by using bottled water to mix formula, but actually, tap water is better in this case. Many children pack bottled water in school lunches, and adults tend to toss a bottled water in the car instead of filling up a reusable water bottle with tap water.
Fluoride is an interesting mineral because it attracts other minerals and strengthens tooth enamel. At your checkup, we can determine whether your teeth would benefit from a fluoride supplement. If we find that your teeth could use a boost, we'll recommend a simple solution.
Fluoride mouth rinse in many flavors is available at our office. One quick rinse, and your teeth will have a better chance of staying healthy. We offer supplemental fluoride for patients of all ages. Oftentimes, our hygienist will recommend additional ways to keep your fluoride levels up between dental visits. These may include switching to tap water or using a fluoride-rich mouthwash at home.
We Invite You to Schedule a Visit Today
Located in Lake Orion, our state-of-the-art dental facility serves families from Clarkston, Auburn Hills, Oxford, and Rochester Hills, as well as many other areas in southeast Michigan. Call us at 248-693-6213 to reserve your personal consultation, checkup, and cleaning with Dr. Greenfield, or to get answers to all of your questions. It’s time you experienced dental care close to home, but far from ordinary!