Sealants

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are indicated for molars and premolars which are located in the back of the mouth. The biting surfaces of these teeth have ridges, pits, and fissures that can retain food, plaque, and bacteria making them more susceptible to decay. Effective cleaning of these surfaces can be difficult, even with regular brushing. If you fail to remove food debris and bacteria, they can eventually lead to cavities, bad breath, and stains. Dental sealants cover the pits and fissures of teeth to reduce the chance of unwanted particles becoming trapped.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a thin coat of resin that your dentist applies to your teeth. Before your dentist places the sealant, an etching solution is applied to the area to prepare the enamel to receive the sealant. The etchant is then rinsed off, the sealant is placed on the tooth and a special curing light hardens and bonds the sealant to the tooth.

The Benefits of Sealants

Sealants are beneficial for dental patients of all ages- but especially for children, once their permanent teeth erupt into their mouths because sealants protect the chewing surfaces of teeth. Since children often love to eat sugary foods, sealants give them an extra bit of protection to keep their smiles sparkling. Dental sealants are a valuable preventive procedure against decay and take only a few minutes to be applied. It is less costly, less invasive, less stressful, and faster than having a cavity filled. Once placed, dental sealants can last up to 2-10 years depending on a variety of factors.

Sealant Care

After you have had a dental sealant applied to your teeth, you will take care of it in the same way that you take care of all of your teeth. As long as you brush your teeth and floss daily, your new sealant should last for years. During follow-up appointments, the dentist will check on the integrity of your sealant and make sure that it has not suffered from too much wear and tear. Even with these coatings, you should still receive regular cleanings to assist in your oral hygiene efforts.

Schedule an Appointment for Sealants

If you want to minimize the risk of cavities, consider getting dental sealants. The process is simple and keeps you protected for years. Call McDonogh Dental Associates today to learn more!

Prevention

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