Question 1

What is GingiShield™ Enamel Sealant with Antibacterial SELDOX?

Accepted Answer

GingiShield is a clear sealant applied to at-risk teeth by veterinary professionals. GingiShield kills harmful bacteria and helps prevent the formation of plaque, reducing the risk of periodontal disease (gum disease).

Question 2

Is GingiShield™ safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. GingiShield is the same product used by dentists and cleared by the FDA to seal and protect children's teeth, but formulated for veterinary use.  GingiShield is non-toxic and is safe for dogs and cats of all sizes.

Question 3

How is GingiShield™ different from other veterinary dental sealants?

Accepted Answer

GingiShield is the only sealant with patented SELDOX antibacterial protection - safely killing bacteria and inhibiting plaque formation.   Additionally, other veterinary tooth sealants must be reapplied frequently between dental cleanings, while a single GingiShield application lasts a year or longer.

Question 4

Can GingiShield™ be applied at home?

Accepted Answer

No, GingiShield must be applied only by veterinary professionals. Application requires specialized equipment and training.  GingiShield is applied during routine dental cleaning.

Question 5

Can GingiShield™ be applied to deciduous teeth?

Accepted Answer

Practically, there is no reason to apply GingiShield to deciduous teeth because the teeth are only in the mouth for about 8-11 weeks before they exfoliate and are replaced by the permanent teeth.   Technically, it could be applied though this application is not recommended because there is an increased risk of pulpitis due to the very thin dentin.

Question 6

Can GingiShield™ be applied to other species besides dogs/cats?

Accepted Answer

At this time, there is no known contraindication for application of GingiShield to healthy teeth of other species. Please contact SelenBio Dental with species-specific questions.

Question 7

What is the benefit to risk comparison?

Accepted Answer

The benefit is that GingiShield significantly inhibits the attachment of bacteria to the tooth surface, which deters biofilm (plaque) formation. Biofilm is the main cause of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis).   Properly applied, there is no known risk associated with GingiShield application other than the added anesthesia time, typically 10 minutes per patient with an experienced technician.   GingiShield is based on the FDA-cleared DenteShield™ product used in human dentistry.

Question 8

Can GingiShield™ be applied as a surface sealant on direct composite restorations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, applying a top layer of unfilled resin, such as GingiShield, to direct composite restorations has been shown to decrease microleakage. Also, the antimicrobial properties of GingiShield should reduce the tendency of composites to facilitate bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation.

Question 9

Is toothbrushing still necessary?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When people have dental sealants applied they still need to brush their teeth and have regular professional dental cleanings and x-rays. The same is true for pets.

Question 10

Can GingiShield™ be applied to exposed root surfaces?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in selected patients as part of a complete treatment plan. Please contact SelenBio Dental for specific information. Dental x-rays of the affected tooth are necessary.

Question 11

Can GingiShield™ help with enamel hypoplasia/hypocalcification and/or enamel defects?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in selected patients as part of a complete treatment plan. Please contact SelenBio Dental for specific information. Dental x-rays of the affected teeth are necessary.

Question 12

What would be the GingiShield™ recommendation for CUPS patients?

Accepted Answer

There is no definitive data yet as to whether or not GingiShield will benefit CUPS patients. However, as it is an additional way to help control plaque, it is expected that the sealant will be beneficial.   This answer will be updated as new information becomes available.

Question 13

Does annual etching and application of GingiShield™ deteriorate enamel?

Accepted Answer

Enamel remineralization, and demineralization, occurs constantly. After the initial application of GingiShield, subsequent annual applications will result primarily in etching and application atop remaining sealant material.   Because the sealant is applied to buccal/labial surfaces, the sealant can over time create a thicker sealant layer without any interference with occlusion.

GINGISHIELD® FOR VETERINARY USE

GingiShield® Sealant Kit

GingiShield® Sealant Starter Kit