Sealants | Fluoride | Oral Hygiene
Sealants
The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food, which means these areas are especially prone to decay. Sealants protect these areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas.
Before a tooth is sealed, the surface is cleaned and prepared. When the sealant material is placed on the tooth, it is hardened using a special light. Once the sealant is in place, the chewing surfaces are smoother and easier to clean. Because sealants are only placed on the chewing surfaces, your child must continue to brush the sides of the teeth and floss in between teeth.
Sealants can last for several years or longer, depending on how they are cared for. Your child should avoid eating ice or hard candies, which can damage sealants overtime. At each check-up, Dr. La Batto examines sealants to see if they need to be re-applied or repaired.
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Fluoride
Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance that helps teeth become stronger and resistant to decay. When fluoride was added to drinking water several decades ago, fewer people begin to have cavities.
Fluoride prevents decay topically and systematically. Cavities are less likely to develop on tooth with a high fluoride mineral content, because the surface of the tooth is harder, making it more difficult for bacteria to breakdown. Topical fluoride works from the outside in. On the other hand, systemic fluoride works from the inside out.
Systemic fluoride comes from drinking water and food, or as supplemental tablets or drops, if necessary. The body absorbs fluoride, and utilizes it to make the enamel of developing teeth stronger.
Topical fluoride protects teeth already in the mouth, and can be found in toothpaste, mouth rinses, and prescription products.
Dr. La Batto may recommend you use a high-strength fluoride gel daily to prevent cavities and to stop or even reverse the signs of decay. If you have symptoms of gingivitis, Dr. La Batto may prescribe a high-strength fluoride rinse to clear up the condition and inhibit bacteria growth.
Too much systemic fluoride can cause a chalky white or yellowish brown discoloration. That’s why it is important to know all of the sources of fluoride your child may have. Fluoride can be found in drinking water at daycares and schools, and in the soft drink and juice machines in fast food restaurants and convenience stores.
Use a pea sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste until your child is able to spit. This will minimize the amount he or she swallows.
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Oral Hygiene
Brushing
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth and the surface of each tooth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Brush up on the lower teeth, down on the upper teeth and the outside, inside and chewing surface of all of your front and back teeth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse.
Brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles and plaque:
- In the morning after breakfast
- After lunch or right after school
- After dinner
- At bedtime
As soon as the bristles start to wear down or fray, replace your toothbrush with a new one. Do not swallow any toothpaste. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after you finish brushing. It is important to carefully floss and brush daily for optimal oral hygiene.
Flossing
For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach, dental floss is used to remove food particles and plaque. Dental floss is a thin thread of waxed nylon that is used to reach below the gum line and clean between teeth. It is very important to floss between your teeth every day.
Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser. Wrap the ends of the floss tightly around your middle fingers. Guide the floss between all teeth to the gum line, pulling out any food particles or plaque. Unwrap clean floss from around your fingers as you go so that you have used the floss from beginning to end when you finish. Floss behind all of your back teeth.
Floss at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed. When you first begin flossing, your gums may bleed a little. If the bleeding does not go away after the first few times, let a staff member know at your next appointment.
Diet Control
The teeth, bones and soft tissue of the mouth require a healthy, well-balanced diet. A variety of foods from the five food groups help minimize and avoid cavities and other dental problems. Consumption of foods that contain sugars and starches should be decreased. These foods can include candies, cookies, chips and crackers. Healthier foods, such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt and cheeses, help promote stronger teeth.
Dental Visits
You should visit our office twice a year (once every six months). In order to maintain a healthy smile, it is vital to have professional cleanings and regular checkups. Dr. La Batto will examine your teeth and provide an evaluation of existing dental problems and proposed treatment. If you have a dental emergency, you should call us immediately.
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