Top-Quality Dental Fluoride and Sealant Treatments in Philadelphia

Center City Emergency Dentist has provided general dental care — using fluoride and sealants — to Center City and the rest of the Philadelphia area for more than 65 years. Even if your mouth is free of pain, it is essential that you visit a dentist every six months. That way, you’ll remain pain-free and catch potential issues before they worsen.

Continue below to learn how we use sealants and fluoride to improve your oral health.

Sealants

Sealants are thin coatings placed on the chewing surface of molars and other teeth. These sealants form into the grooves to create a protective covering over the enamel of your teeth. Enamel is the protective coating on the outside of teeth, so a tooth with a sealant has extra-strength protection against decay and other possible issues. Sealants prevent food from sticking to your teeth, preventing plaque and potential cavities. It is an especially popular treatment among children and teens, as dental hygiene is crucial to healthy development in this age group, and sealants offer an added layer of protection to prevent decay early in life.

Fluoride Treatments

You’re probably already receiving small doses of fluoride every day in your toothpaste and possibly in your drinking water as well. For decades, the health benefits of fluoride have been well known. This mineral helps strengthen tooth enamel to prevent cavities while helping to kill bacteria that can lead to cavities and otherwise affect the health of your teeth and gums.

If you are at high risk for cavities, you may be a candidate for fluoride treatments. Cavities form due to plaque, which builds up due to bacteria. Acid, which is produced by plaque, can eat away at the tissues of your gums and teeth. If this acid breaks through the enamel on the surface of the tooth (which, you’ll remember, is stronger for patients who have sealants on their teeth), it can reach the tooth’s root, infecting nerves and blood and, in turn, resulting in a cavity.

Contact Us Today for Dental Fluorosis Treatment in Philadelphia

We provide a variety of dental procedures and periodontal treatments. Our emergency dentistry is available seven days a week, ready to address any difficulties you are facing. We understand the stress and pain that dental complications can cause. Aside from reliable emergency services, we also offer orthodontic and cosmetic surgery assistance. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Dental Fluorosis and Sealant FAQs

Can dental fluorosis be fixed?

Dental fluorosis can be addressed through various treatments, depending on its severity. For mild cases, teeth whitening or microabrasion might suffice to improve appearance. More severe instances may require bonding, veneers, or crowns to restore the teeth’s look. Our dental team at Center City Emergency Dentists (CCED) in Pennsylvania can assess your specific case and recommend the most suitable treatment to keep your teeth healthy and attractive.

Are sealants usually covered by dental insurance?

Many dental insurance plans cover sealants, especially for children and teenagers. However, coverage can vary widely between policies. Some plans might fully cover sealants for specific age groups or limit coverage to certain teeth, typically the back teeth. It’s wise to check with your insurance provider about your specific coverage.

What makes a person a candidate for sealants?

Sealants are ideal for anyone with deep grooves or fissures on their teeth’s chewing surfaces. While children and teenagers are common candidates due to their higher risk of cavities, adults can benefit too. People who struggle to maintain oral hygiene, have a history of cavities, or consume a diet high in sugars and carbohydrates are excellent candidates.

When should children get sealants?

Children should get sealants as soon as their permanent molars erupt, which typically occurs around age 6 for the first set and age 12 for the second set. Early application of sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities on these crucial chewing surfaces. Some dentists might also recommend sealants for baby teeth if they have deep grooves. At CCED, we assess each child’s individual needs and dental development to recommend the optimal timing for sealant application.

Do children need sealants AND fluoride?

Yes, children benefit from both sealants and fluoride treatments. These two preventive measures work in different ways to protect teeth. Sealants physically shield the chewing surfaces of back teeth from decay-causing bacteria. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel overall, making it more resistant to acid attacks. Using both treatments provides comprehensive protection against cavities.

How long do sealants last?

Sealants can last for several years with proper care. On average, they remain effective for about 5 to 10 years. However, their longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene habits, diet, and grinding or clenching teeth. Timely dental check-ups allow us to monitor the condition of sealants and reapply them if necessary, protecting your teeth for as long as possible.