Brushing and flossing is the easiest way to safeguard our teeth from tooth decay and cavities. But at times, this may not be sufficient as the deep grooves and pits on your teeth, where food debris and plaque accumulate, can be pretty challenging to clean. This is where dental sealants can be of great help.
What Are Sealants?
Sealants are thin, tooth-colored coatings applied on the occlusal grooves where regular brushing cannot clean efficiently. Although the sealants are primarily used on the chewing surfaces of the premolars and molars, they can also be placed on the lingual surfaces of the front teeth.
How Do Sealants Prevent Cavities?
Sealants work as a protective shield on our teeth, which prevent plaque or debris accumulations on the extensive and deep surfaces of our teeth. This prevents tooth decay or cavities. Almost every age group is a perfect fit for getting a sealant treatment. Children between the ages of six and thirteen should get sealants done because they are more vulnerable to cavities. Adults can benefit from sealants, too, as the occurrence of cavities on the molars and premolars will be reduced significantly by covering the grooves entirely.
What is the Procedure for Applying Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are simple, and the process is pain-free. The procedure is not lengthy and can be done in just a single sitting with our dentist, Dr. Anderson. It requires follow-up consultations in some cases only. The procedure of applying dental sealants involves the following steps:
Preparation
Since these are direct restorations, they are applied directly to our teeth and not fabricated in a laboratory. First, Dr. Anderson will clean your mouth and then meticulously dry your teeth to prepare them for the procedure.
Etching
An etching liquid is applied to the teeth to roughen them and help the sealant bond. Your teeth are then rinsed again to clear the agent and then dried.
Sealant Placement
We will then apply the sealant material on the grooves and pits of the teeth, making a protective layer over them. Lastly, the sealants are hardened using a special curing light.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
- They help prevent cavities and decay by acting as a covering and protective layer over vulnerable places on our teeth.
- The procedure is quick, easy, and painless
- It is appropriate for patients of all age groups
- The material used is tooth-colored, so it stays in disguise
- With proper care, sealants can last long
- It adds additional support to your oral care
Maintenance of dental sealants is easy. Regular consultations, using fluoride toothpaste, proper flossing, and a nutritious diet are sufficient to maintain sealants and your natural teeth.
To learn more about our sealant treatments, visit our office, Robert E. Anderson, D.D.S., at 4300 Golden Center Dr, Suite G, in Placerville, CA 95667. You can also reach us at (530) 622-9068.
