A sealant is a barrier that covers teeth susceptible to tooth decay. Dental sealants can protect baby teeth and permanent teeth from developing dental caries. Since most people associate sealants with pediatric dentistry, there is a misconception that it is only for kids. But the protective covering can shield teeth effectively in children and adults. Visit Peace Haven Family Dentistry today to get dental sealants and get protection for your teeth.
What is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a protective resin our dentist may apply with a brush to the surface of the teeth. The procedure starts with an examination of the oral cavities and the back teeth for fractures, decay, or inconsistencies. The next step is cleaning the tooth’s surface with a special gel.
The acidic gel ensures the dental resin will bond with the tooth after it cures. After the application, blue light is directed to the surface to harden the dental resin over the tooth.
Sealants are often applied on the premolars and molars as they are most vulnerable to enamel erosion. The molars and premolars contain grooves where food debris can get stuck. Bacteria in your mouth consume sugars and starch-producing acids. The acids can weaken the enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
The procedure is fast and painless and does not require drilling or anesthesia. A sealant could be applied on teeth showing early signs of tooth decay. The resin is transparent, which enables examination of the tooth’s enamel after the procedure.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Sealant?
Dental sealants may be necessary when the first molars appear at age six. The resin can also protect the teeth when the second set of molars emerges at age 12. According to the American Dental Association, sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by 80% in children. Applying the resin as soon as the molars appear protects the tooth as soon as it emerges. If there are fissures or inconsistencies on baby teeth, our dentist may also suggest sealants.
But sealants can also be effective for adults.
Peace Haven Family Dentistry may recommend sealants if you have deep grooves on your teeth. The procedure is not ideal for people with dental fillings. It is also not recommended for patients with allergies. The resin may cause side effects.
Why Brushing Is Not Always Enough
Brushing your teeth is not always effective at eliminating the food debris on multiple grooves on the molars and premolars. The back of your mouth can be tricky to reach with a regular toothbrush. If a dental evaluation determines your back teeth are at risk of cavities, sealing them may help. The sealant only protects the surface of the tooth. Maintaining your dental hygiene routine is still essential after getting a sealant.
How Sealants Can Be Beneficial for Your Oral Health?
Research studies from the CDC show children with sealants have a lower risk of dental caries than those without the sealant. The resin protects the tooth, and the procedure is more cost-effective and non-invasive than dental fillings or crowns. Sealants can last for years without requiring further reapplication to protect the teeth. Dental hygiene and follow-up visits are still essential for realizing optimal benefits for your oral health.
All Aspects of General Dentistry Including: Root Canal Therapy, Dental Extractions, Invisalign, Dental Implants, Tooth Colored Fillings, Same Day CEREC Crowns, Full and Partial Dentures, 3-D CBCT X-rays
My office is located at:
1086 Whitaker Rd.
Winston Salem, NC 27106
336-765-9247
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