How long does an Invisalign treatment take?

An Invisalign treatment can take anywhere between 6 months to 3 years. It will depend on your existing teeth positioning and how far they need to move. Find out how long during your appointment with our orthodontist.

Will I need to wear retainers after Invisalign treatment?

Yes. It’s crucial to your treatment you’ll need to wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment until your orthodontic tells you otherwise.

How long do the aligners have to be in my mouth?

You need to wear your Invisalign aligners for 22 hours a day for perfect results. After that, patients repeat this until completion (between 6 months and 3 years). After that, your Invisalign dentist will be able to explain the treatment in detail.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Any pressure or movement on your teeth may cause discomfort. However, this is uncommon. And it mainly occurs on the first day of wearing a new Invisalign. Australia puts high importance on oral health and comfort. Raise ongoing pain or discomfort with your Invisalign provider.

How much does Invisalign cost compared to braces?

Knowing how much is Invisalign and braces is vital. We can explain the costs of both at our first meeting. Invisalign, braces and other orthodontic treatments have pros and cons. And the value of each is subjective. If you would like to know your options, we can help.

How do I choose the right Invisalign provider?

When searching for 'Invisalign near me', always read and follow what Invisalign reviews say. There you'll see who takes civic gentle dental care seriously. And check out the gallery of each Invisalign provider.

How do I know if an Invisalign treatment is right for me?

In the Invisalign vs braces debate, many things are considered. There's the Invisalign price, treatment time and look. Your dental needs are unique. And our Invisalign dentists can provide expert recommendations.

Fissure Sealants After Care Guide

Want to know how to take care of your child's newly sealed teeth?

Kids' dental hygiene is a priority for all parents, especially when their children get fissure sealants. If the sealants are properly cared for, they help shield teeth from cavities and tooth decay.

At Gorgeous Smiles, we want to support your child's ongoing dental health, which is why we have created this aftercare guide.

Why Is Aftercare Important After Getting Fissure Sealants?

Fissure sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. They are designed to reduce the risk of bacteria and plaque buildup in the grooves of the teeth.

Fissure sealants can last for up to 10 years with proper maintenance. Without proper care, the sealants can wear off more quickly, leaving the tooth grooves exposed. Taking good care of your child's teeth also sets a foundation for their future dental hygiene habits.

How Do You Take Care of Your Teeth After Fissure Sealants?

Taking care of sealed teeth is not complicated — it takes a little extra attention. Follow these guidelines to support the longevity of your child's dental sealants.

Immediate Post-Treatment Care

Promote appropriate brushing methods: Plaque accumulation can erode or harm the sealant. Ensure that your child uses fluoride toothpaste twice a day and brushes for a minimum of two minutes.
Avoid sticky or hard foods: For the first 24 hours, avoid foods like hard candies or sticky foods. They can dislodge and put excess pressure on the dental sealant, potentially damaging it.
Rinse with water: To remove food particles from around the sealants, rinse your mouth with water after eating. These particles can turn into plaque if left undisturbed.
Pain or sensitivity following the procedure: If your child feels uncomfortable or sensitive after the procedure, over-the-counter pain medication can be used. A cold compress can help minimise swelling. If pain continues, contact your dentist.

Long-Term Care for Fissure Sealants

Keep a watchful eye on your child's sealants: Schedule regular dental appointments and check the condition of the sealants. See your dentist for repairs or reapplication if there is any wear or damage.
Be cautious with oral habits: Discourage your child from biting their nails, chewing on pens, or using their teeth to open packages. These habits can stress the teeth and damage the sealants.
Drink plenty of water: Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away food particles.

Important Steps for Caring for Your Child's Fissure Sealants

Encourage a balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products supports both overall and oral health.
Promote a flossing habit: Flossing is essential to clean the gaps between teeth where bacteria can accumulate. Teach your child to floss gently to avoid damaging the sealants.
Cut down on sodas and juices: These drinks are often high in sugar and acids. Limit their intake and encourage water or milk instead.
Use a sealant-friendly toothbrush: Some toothbrushes can be too harsh on sealants. Use a soft-bristle brush that cleans effectively without damaging the sealants.
Positive reinforcement: Rewarding your children for good oral hygiene encourages them to maintain their routines.

Are Fissure Sealants Suitable for My Child?

Fissure sealants are a low-risk preventive treatment. They don't involve drilling or removal of enamel, and the application process is non-invasive. However, like all dental treatments, there are potential issues to be aware of. The sealant may chip, wear, or fall off over time and require reapplication. In rare cases, decay may develop beneath a sealant if it was applied over an area where early decay was not detected. Consult your dentist to determine whether fissure sealants are appropriate for your child's teeth.

When Should My Child Get Fissure Sealants?

Most dentists recommend applying sealants when permanent molars erupt, typically between the ages of 5 and 14, as this is when children are most susceptible to cavities in the grooves of their teeth. Your dentist will assess your child's teeth and advise on timing.

Can Adults Get Fissure Sealants?

Adults can get dental sealants. Adults with deep grooves in their back teeth or a high risk of cavities may be candidates. Your dentist will assess whether sealants are appropriate. Good oral hygiene practices remain essential even with sealants in place.

Can You Eat Straight After Getting Fissure Sealants?

You can eat after the treatment, but it's best to stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours to avoid putting pressure on the sealants while they settle. Some dentists advise waiting at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking after the procedure.

How Long Do Fissure Sealants Last?

Fissure sealants can last several years with proper care, typically 5 to 10 years. They may require replacement or repair if they become worn or damaged. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if needed.

Fissure sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay but do not replace good dental hygiene. Encourage your children to continue brushing twice daily.

For full information about treatment risks, please visit our treatment risks page: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/

Final Thoughts

Fissure sealants are a preventive measure designed to reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay in children's teeth. By following aftercare instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can support the longevity of the sealants.

The care process continues after the dental appointment — it requires consistent hygiene routines and regular dental check-ups. Your dentist can monitor the sealants and reapply them if needed.

For full information about treatment risks, please visit: https://www.gorgeoussmiles.com.au/treatment-risks/