Sure to put some power in your prevention program, Sealants are a thin plastic material often applied to molars and premolars. As a protective shield against tooth decay, sealants make it easier to brush and floss away food particles by smoothing the biting surfaces of teeth.
Sealants are appropriate for all ages. Typically in the “cavity prone” years of 6-14, they serve as an important barrier to decay. However, sealants can also benefit baby teeth, especially if the teeth have deep grooves and pits. In the same way, dentists may recommend sealants for adult patients that are without fillings or tooth decay in their molars.
Applying sealants is painless and only requires one visit to the dentist. First, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried. It’s important that teeth remain dry throughout the procedure, so dentists will place cotton around the area. To prepare the chewing surface for the sealant material, an acid solution is used. This “roughens” the tooth’s surface. The dentist will then rinse the tooth and dry it. As the sealant material is applied to the tooth, it immediately begins to bond and harden.
Generally, sealants last up to 10 years. With proper care and regular dental checkups to check for chipping and wear, sealants will continue to protect teeth against decay. Patients should know, however, that more sealant material could be applied easily if the material breaks down over time.
Prevention Begins Here
Dr. Frederick and the staff at Frederick Dental welcome your family to our practice. Through comfort-care dentistry, you can feel at ease in our office. When it comes to preventative care, our team is armed with information and the latest treatments to provide you with the power you need to prevent tooth decay and achieve the best smile possible. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.