In this occasional series, Dr. Sheri Doniger will share her experiences with some of her favorite dental instruments, materials, and equipment. These are products Dr. Doniger personally uses or has tested in her practice.
Why wouldn't we want a product to help heal the tooth and create an atmosphere that protects other teeth? Aegis pit-and-fissure sealant with amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) from Bosworth is just that product.
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| Aegis pit-and-fissure sealant with ACP. Image courtesy of Bosworth. |
This is the only dental sealant that releases ACP, which has been hailed the "Tums of the teeth" because of its effects on remineralization and decreasing secondary caries. ACP is released when the pH decreases during an acid event, so it is perfect to offer additional protection to the often-attacked occlusal surface of the tooth. Additionally, ACP neutralizes acid by releasing buffering calcium and phosphate ions into the saliva.
Isn't this what we all want for our patients? To stop decay before it starts and to remineralize secondary lesions before they become issues?
"The difference between ACP and fluoride is that fluoride was introduced in 1954 to work as a temporary external shield, slowing down demineralization," said Katherine Steyer of Bosworth. "The ACP in Aegis pit-and-fissure sealant forms a chemical and thermal barrier, protecting teeth from carious attacks. And ACP is nonreliant on patient compliance."
Aegis pit-and-fissure sealant is applied in the same manner as traditional sealants, but offers a larger therapeutic value. My suggestion is to try it -- you and your patients are sure to like it.
Sheri Doniger, D.D.S., practices clinical dentistry in Lincolnwood, IL. She has served as an educator in several dental and dental hygiene programs, has been a consultant for a major dental benefit company, and has written for several dental publications. Most recently, she was the editor of Woman Dentist Journal and Woman Dentist eJournal. You can reach her at [email protected].
The comments and observations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of DrBicuspid.com, nor should they be construed as an endorsement or admonishment of any particular idea, vendor, or organization.
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