Dental sealants are a proactive step in maintaining a healthy smile. The protective layer they provide prevents food and bacteria from settling into the nooks and crannies of your molars, inhibiting the formation of cavities. They are especially beneficial for children, whose brushing skills may not yet be fully developed. However, adults can also benefit from dental sealants, particularly those with a history of dental decay. In essence, dental sealants are a preventative measure that can save you time, discomfort, and money in the long run. Call our dentist in Lowell for more information about dental sealants!
Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids. By sealing off the grooves and depressions on the chewing surfaces of your teeth, they prevent food particles and bacteria from causing decay. As a result, you're less likely to need fillings or more extensive dental work in the future.
Once applied, dental sealants can protect your teeth for up to 10 years. They withstand the normal forces of chewing and can be easily checked for wear and tear during your regular dental check-ups. If necessary, they can also be replaced, ensuring you continue to enjoy their protective benefits.
Getting dental sealants is a straightforward, pain-free procedure. It takes just a few minutes per tooth and there's no drilling or removal of tooth structure. The sealant is simply painted onto the tooth and hardened with a special light. This makes it a stress-free treatment for both children and adults.
The first step in the dental sealants procedure is a thorough cleaning of your teeth. This is to ensure that no plaque or food particles are trapped under the sealant. Your dentist will clean each tooth that is to receive a sealant and dry it well.
The next step involves painting the sealant onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. This plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of the chewing surfaces of the back teeth.
The final step is hardening the sealant. After the sealant has been applied, your dentist will use a special curing light to harden it. This process only takes a few minutes but provides years of protection against tooth decay.
Dental sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars!
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Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, as they are more prone to cavities in their molars and premolars. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants. It's best to consult with your dentist to determine if sealants are a good option for you or your child.
