What are Dental Sealants?
The chewing surface of your teeth is lined with tiny grooves and pits, which, although completely natural, can pose a problem. These nooks are prime real estate for leftover food particles and bacteria, leading to decay if not properly cleaned. Dental sealants, a thin, protective coating of plastic bond to these chewing surfaces to seal off these areas from cavity-causing elements.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a valuable preventive measure, particularly for children and teenagers. These individuals are most susceptible to developing cavities in their permanent molars and premolars, which often have deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. By applying sealants to these teeth early on, typically soon after eruption, our dental team can provide long-term protection against decay.
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 are the unsung heroes in the fight against decay, offering deniability to the bacteria attempting to work their tooth-destructive magic.
- Aftershock of Saving Money: Prevention is often a cost-effective strategy, and sealants are no exception. Compared to filling a cavity, a restorative treatment that handles damage already done, sealants are on the frontline, aiming to prevent these issues altogether.
- 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 will identify the teeth most susceptible to decay, typically the molars and premolars, which have deep grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can accumulate.
- 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 may also assess the integrity of the sealant coverage to ensure that all susceptible areas are adequately protected.
- 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. With the help of our excellent dental professionals, you can get the care your smile deserves here at Ackerman & Towson Dentistry. Take the step to protect your or your child’s smile with dental sealants by scheduling an appointment with us today!