What are Dental Sealants?
Tiny grooves on your teeth’s chewing surface, though natural, can be problematic. These nooks are prime real estate for leftover food particles and bacteria, leading to decay if not properly cleaned. Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that protect chewing surfaces from cavities.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a valuable preventive measure, particularly for children and teenagers. They are most prone to cavities in molars and premolars due to deep grooves that trap food and bacteria. Applying sealants early protects teeth from decay long-term.
Additionally, regardless of age, individuals with naturally deep grooves and pits in their teeth can benefit from sealants to smooth out these surfaces and reduce the risk of cavity formation. Moreover, those with a history of cavities or at a higher risk of developing them due to poor oral hygiene habits or dietary factors can also benefit from sealants. Even adults with healthy teeth may find sealants advantageous, especially if they have difficult-to-clean areas.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
The case for sealants is compelling. They go beyond merely covering crevices. Here’s how sealants could be a game-changer for your dental regimen.
- Protection That Lasts: Sealants fight decay by blocking bacteria from harming teeth.
- Aftershock of Saving Money: Prevention is often a cost-effective strategy, and sealants are no exception. Unlike fillings that fix damage, sealants prevent cavities from forming.
- Future-Proofing Oral Health: Sealants are part of the larger strategy of maintaining oral health. Protecting teeth from cavities today contributes to a healthy mouth for years.
Dental Sealants Process
The dental sealants process is as quick and easy as a regular dental visit.
- Tooth Examination: The first step in the dental sealant procedure is a thorough teeth examination by Dr. Towson, Dr. Viggy, or Dr. Jow. They identify cavity-prone molars and premolars with deep grooves that trap food and bacteria.
- Tooth Preparation: Once the teeth are selected for sealants, they will be cleaned and dried thoroughly to ensure optimal bonding of the sealant material. Dr. Towson, Dr. Viggy, or Dr. Jow may use a special solution to etch the tooth surface slightly, creating a rough texture that helps the sealant adhere better.
- Sealant Application: After preparing the tooth surface, we will apply the dental sealant material. The sealant is a thin, tooth-colored resin that flows into the grooves and pits of the tooth. Dr. Towson, Dr. Viggy, or Dr. Jow will carefully paint the sealant onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth using a small brush or applicator.
- Bonding and Curing: Once the sealant material is applied, a curing light may harden it quickly. This process, known as photopolymerization, helps the sealant bond securely to the tooth surface. The light activates chemicals in the sealant material, causing it to harden within seconds.
- Evaluation: After the sealants are applied and cured, Dr. Towson, Dr. Viggy, or Dr. Jow will check the bite to ensure that the sealants do not interfere with the proper alignment of the teeth. They also check the sealant’s integrity to ensure it fully protects all vulnerable areas.
- Final Polish: Once the sealants are correctly bonded and evaluated, Dr. Towson, Dr. Viggy, or Dr. Jow may perform a final polish to smooth rough edges and ensure a comfortable fit. This step also helps enhance the sealants’ appearance, making them less noticeable in the mouth.
- Post-Procedure Care: Patients must avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods immediately after getting sealants to allow them to harden fully. With proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, dental sealants can provide long-lasting protection against tooth decay.
Dental Sealants in Brentwood, CA
Dental sealants are a proactive step that could mean the difference between needing a filling or not in the future. Ackerman & Towson Dentistry provides the expert care your smile deserves. Take the step to protect your or your child’s smile with dental sealants by scheduling an appointment with us today!