Dental Sealants To Protect Your Teeth – A Columbia Dentist Explains
Protecting your teeth from decay is a must and one way you can do this is with dental sealants. A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. Since most of the decay that occurs happens to the back teeth, this is one way of preventing that from happening. Sealants keep out germs and food particles that can get in the grooves of the teeth and minimize your chances of developing more serious problems in the future.
The Procedure is Quick And Easy
- There is no need to remove any of the tooth’s structure which means no anesthesia, shots or drilling
- The tooth is cleaned, a special gel is applied for a few seconds and then is washed off and the tooth dried
- The sealant is painted on the tooth
- A curing light is used to help harden the sealant, which takes approximately one minute
Typically, the sealant is applied to permanent teeth. Teenagers and children are great candidates for sealants as decay generally starts early in life, but adults can benefit from them as well.
Here are some other FAQ’s About Sealants:
- Sealants are placed on the molars and premolars typically
- It is recommended to do it as early as possible which is just after the tooth has erupted in order to prevent early decay
- Sealants are typically not seen and can last for 5 to 10 years
- It is still recommended that you use fluoride for a more comprehensive form of cavity protection
- Sealants are a part of your preventative program. You should keep up a normal oral hygiene schedule and routine at home in order for you to get the maximum benefit from the sealant
- Sealants can save you time and money spent at the dentist
If you would like to have a protective barrier against decay-causing bacteria, then call our office today to schedule an exam and consultation.