Fissure sealing, application of highly concentrated fluorides (tooth fluoridation), and sports mouthguards.
Fissure sealing
The chewing surfaces of posterior teeth contain pits and grooves where food debris and bacterial plaque easily accumulate and are very difficult to remove by brushing. For this reason, these areas are the most common sites for the development of dental caries. Fissure sealing is a highly effective method for preventing cavities in posterior teeth. It is a procedure in which a sealing fluid material is applied to these surfaces, filling the grooves and creating a barrier between the tooth and external factors. In addition, the sealant releases fluoride, providing prolonged protection.
It is recommended that fissure sealing be performed on both primary and permanent teeth immediately after eruption. It is important to note that a sealed tooth is not permanently immune to decay, as caries may still develop on other tooth surfaces. Sealants must also be checked periodically and reapplied if necessary.
The procedure is completely painless and takes approximately 10 minutes.
Application of highly concentrated fluorides (fluoridation)
This is another highly effective procedure in caries prevention. It involves applying varnishes or gels containing high concentrations of fluoride to the tooth surfaces and can only be performed by a dentist in a clinical setting. The procedure may be repeated several times a year, and the number of treatments is individually determined by the dentist based on each patient’s caries risk.
The procedure is completely painless and intended for children over the age of 6, as well as adolescents and adults with moderate to high caries risk, in order to prevent the development of new carious lesions.
Sports mouthguard
A sports mouthguard is custom-made for each athlete based on an impression taken in the dental office. It absorbs and distributes impact forces, thereby preventing injuries to the teeth, lips, cheeks, jaw, temporomandibular joint, and reducing the risk of concussion. Unlike ready-made or semi-finished mouthguards available in sports stores, a custom-made mouthguard provides significantly better protection, is not bulky, does not slip, does not tighten, and does not interfere with wearing comfort.