Dental Services That Help Prevent Tooth Decay

There are many different dental services that can help keep your teeth healthy. Some can even help prevent tooth decay from occurring. Here are a few of them.

Sealant Applications

Dental sealants help prevent the teeth from decaying by forming a shield to protect the teeth from acids. Tooth decay is the damage that is caused as the teeth are exposed to acid. The acid dissolves the tooth enamel to cause holes to form in the teeth. 

Dental sealants are made of plastic and are added to the grooved chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The sealants are placed on the teeth in a liquid form and are hardened with a special light. Once dental sealants are in place, they continue to protect the teeth for years. If a sealant does become chipped or knicked, more of the plastic material can be applied. 

Professional-strength Fluoride Applications

Professional strength applications of fluoride can help keep the teeth from decaying. Fluoride makes the teeth more resistant to decay-based damage. Additionally, the fluoride helps to repair areas of the tooth enamel that have been compromised due to exposure to bacterial acids. 

The fluoride application is performed in a dental office by a dental professional. The fluoride gel, varnish, or foam is applied to the teeth for a recommended period and then rinsed from the mouth. The moments that the fluoride remains in place offer enough time for the product to be absorbed by the teeth. The rinsing of the product from the mouth ensures that large amounts of fluoride are not ingested during the dental service.

Orthodontic Applications

Orthodontic applications help protect the teeth from decay by making the teeth easier to clean. Teeth that are misaligned or crowded can be difficult to access with a toothbrush and floss. As a result, they may be more easily decayed. 

Braces, clear plastic aligners, and other orthodontic treatments can help reposition the teeth. As the teeth are moved into a straight alignment, dental floss and the bristles of a toothbrush may reach areas of the teeth that were previously inaccessible.

After your teeth are aligned, a retainer may be needed to help keep the teeth straight. The retainer may be required for a set period or indefinitely, depending on the needs of the patient. Make sure to brush your retainer so that it doesn't harbor bacteria and germs which can lead to tooth decay. 

For more information about dental services that can help you avoid tooth decay, schedule an appointment with a dental office like Professional Dental Center in your local area.

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