Lock In Tooth Protection with Sealants -- Brian Dental Care--

Brian Dental Care – 12721 Newport Ave. Suite 1, Tustin, CA 92780 - (714) 730-8070

Protecting Children's Teeth

Parents, as your child's permanent teeth come in, talk to your dentist about having dental sealants applied to protect teeth from tooth decay.

What is a dental sealant? A dental sealant is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth. Grooves in these teeth are so narrow that a toothbrush cannot fit into the spaces to remove plaque (what is plaque?). Dental sealants prevent dental decay in the grooves.

   Why are they important? Sealants can provide 100% protection from    dental decay or "cavities" on the chewing surface. Research has shown that when placed over very minimal dental decay, the decay will no longer progress.

   Who should get sealants? Children should receive sealants on permanent molars as soon    as they erupt (about ages 6 and 12 years).

If a tooth already has a filling, then it does not get a dental sealant.

How are sealants applied?

First – The tooth is etched with a mild acid to create retention for the sealant, then rinsed and air dried.
Second - The liquid sealant is painted into the grooves of the teeth. 
Third - A high intensity light is used to activate the liquid plastic to harden.

Are they safe?Sealants are simple, painless, and require no drilling.

How long do they last?While they may last up to 10 years, 2 to 4 years is a more reasonable estimate. Sealants can be highly effective in protection against cavities provided the sealant is continuously monitored by a dentist. Sealants should be checked by a dentist during regular check-ups and if needed they can be re-applied.

Why aren't sealants used on all teeth?
The liquid plastic is designed to flow into and fill the pits and grooves of the teeth. The plastic does not work on the smooth surfaces of the teeth, like the fronts and backs and sides of the teeth.

How much do they cost?
Treatment is cost effective because sealing a tooth costs less than filling one. As a parent, check with your dentist about specific costs.

What else can parents do to prevent cavities?Encourage your child to brush and floss every day. Use fluoride toothpaste. Ask your dentist about fluoridated water and fluoride mouth rinses. Take your child to the dentist for regular check-ups. Give your child healthy foods and avoid candy and foods with lots of sugar.

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Why Visit the Dentist Regularly?

According to the National Institute of Health, more than fifty percent of 20-34 year olds across the country have not had a regular dental exam and cleaning in over a year. The reason for many people is lack of insurance coverage, time limitations, or fear of the dentist. The staff at Brian Dental Care would like to help ease these concerns with education.

Fifty years ago, there were no guidelines established for dental maintenance. People only saw a dentist when they had pain or noticeable abnormalities with their teeth. When people were enlisting into military services, poor dental health was extremely common. Due to this problem, dental health associations have felt the need for a general “rule of thumb” to help Americans maintain a healthy smile. Because a healthy smile is not only good for your confidence, it is vital to your overall health.

The common thought of most people, of any age, is that if there is no pain, there is no problem. However, the best method to keeping your dental visits painless and inexpensive is to have your dentist check your teeth and gums every six months. Rather than wait for an issue to arise, make the time and save the money for a periodic exam and cleaning; doing this can help keep dental costs and procedures to a minimum. If you do start feeling pain or notice swelling, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. Catching an infection early can make a major difference in your level of discomfort and need for invasive treatments.

When you visit a dentist for a periodic exam, the first thing to be done is x-rays. This helps the doctor see your teeth and nerves and tells of any issues that are not visible to the naked eye, such as a cavity or abscess. Next, the doctor will look inside your mouth to see if there are any issues with your gums or visible cavities/chips on your teeth. Once the evaluation is complete, they will give you any recommendations that they may have (i.e. repair to teeth, deep cleaning, tooth extraction, orthodontics, and/or more frequent cleanings). Last, the hygienist will do a thorough cleaning and flossing to remove any build up of tartar and plaque; at this time they may also give advice on more thorough brushing/flossing. As you leave your appointment, you should schedule your next cleaning/exam. This will keep you accountable and ensure a bright, healthy smile for years to come.

Brian Dental Care

BRIAN DENTAL CARE - Family Dentistry, Implant Surgical Center, Orthodontics, Cosmetic Dentistry in TUSTIN, Orange County!

We welcome you to Brian Dental Care!

At Brian Dental Care, we provide a variety of services for patients of all ages. These include:

General Dentistry Stain Removal/Cleaning Tooth Whitening/Bleaching Cosmetic Dentistry Aesthetic Contouring/Bonding Inlays Veneers Crowns ("Caps") Bridges Dentures

Implants Root Canal Treatment Wisdom Tooth Removal Periodontal Surgery Invisalign/Orthodontics (Braces) Preventive Hygiene Grinding Teeth (Bruxing) Treatment Sports Guards Sealants Snoring Appliances

To learn more about Brian Dental Care, we invite you to browse through our website. If you want to experience our dentistry first hand, stop by and see us.  Our office is conveniently located in Tustin, Orange County. Or you can call us today at 714-730-8070 to schedule your first appointment. Thank you for interested in Brian Dental Care and we look forward to makeover a healthy new smile.