At Central Davis Dental, our top priorities are preserving each patient’s dental health and beautiful smiles. One of the most effective ways to protect the teeth from cavities and preserve oral health is through dental sealants.
Sealants are special coverings made of a plastic material that is applied to the surface of the molars and premolars, protecting the teeth from decay. We recommend having sealants applied as soon as a child’s permanent teeth come in, but they are suitable for patients of all ages who are looking to prevent cavities and decay.
Why Dental Sealants Are Essential
The teeth in the back of the mouth feature deep grooves, making it easy for food to get trapped in the uneven surface and leaving them susceptible to decay. Their location also makes them harder to clean with regular brushing and flossing.
Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating made of BPA-free plastic resin that is applied to these teeth to create a barrier between the enamel and the harmful bacteria that cause damage. They typically hold up well against chewing and stay intact for several years.
Most insurances cover this simple procedure when children are young, so having sealants applied early is beneficial for many reasons, including:
- Cavity prevention: Dental sealants prevent food particles and harmful bacteria from accumulating in the grooves of your molars, significantly reducing the risk of cavities. This is especially important for children who are still developing good oral hygiene habits.
- Cost-effective: Applying sealants is a cost-effective preventive measure. When you invest in sealants, you can avoid the need for more costly procedures in the future.
- Painless and non-invasive: The process of applying sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive, making it an ideal option for children and adults alike.
- Long-lasting protection: With proper care, sealants may last for several years and can be reapplied when necessary.
How Dental Sealants Work
Dental sealants are quick and easy to apply. First, your dentist will clean and dry the surface of the tooth to ensure the sealant adheres properly. The surface is usually roughened slightly with an etching solution to promote better sealant adhesion.
Once the tooth has been prepared, the sealant material is applied in its liquid form. Although it hardens quickly, some sealants are cured using a special light to further expedite the process. The hardened sealant creates a smooth, protective shield over the tooth’s grooves and depressions, effectively blocking food particles and bacteria from building up in hard-to-clean areas.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
While dental sealants are beneficial for individuals of all ages, they are especially advantageous for children and teenagers, since your formative years are when you are most vulnerable to cavities.
Adults who have not had sealants as children can still benefit from this preventive treatment to protect their teeth from future decay. Additionally, patients with a history of cavities or who have especially deep grooves and fissures in their teeth may benefit greatly from sealants.
Maintaining Dental Sealants
Maintaining your dental sealants is simple, easy, and essential for their longevity. The most important step to ensure your sealants protect your teeth effectively is practicing good oral hygiene habits. Continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly to help prevent cavities in areas where sealants are not applied.
In addition to these hygiene practices, it’s crucial to keep up with your regular dental check-ups and cleanings. This gives your dentist the chance to inspect the condition of your sealants and perform any necessary repairs or reapplications.
Finally, be mindful of your diet, especially when it comes to acidic or sugary foods or drinks. These substances can erode the sealant material over time, so be careful of how much you consume.
Dental Sealants From Central Davis Dental
In the battle against tooth decay, dental sealants are an incredibly powerful tool. They offer a cost-effective, painless way to protect your hard-to-reach molars and premolars from decay. At Central Davis Dental, we are committed to providing each of our patients with the best dental care possible, which includes utilizing the protective properties of sealants.
Whether you’re a parent looking to protect your child’s developing teeth, an adult interested in preserving your smile, or an individual at a high risk of cavities, sealants can make a significant difference in your dental well-being.
To experience the benefits of sealants firsthand, schedule an appointment with Central Davis Dental. We are here to help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for a lifetime.