Dental Sealants: Protecting Your Smile
Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, molars, and premolars. Made from plastic or other dental materials, sealants act as a barrier, shielding your teeth from cavity-causing bacteria and food particles. This treatment is suitable for patients of all ages, but it's particularly beneficial for children.
Somerset Family Dentistry offers dental sealants as a convenient and effective way to prevent cavities. You can inquire about sealants during your next routine dental cleaning and exam at our Bellflower, CA office.
Who Can Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a versatile dental treatment that benefits a wide range of patients.
Children especially can benefit from sealants. Their permanent molars, erupting around age 6, have deep grooves that trap food and plaque, increasing cavity risk. Sealants fill these grooves, creating a smooth surface for easier cleaning. Studies show children with sealants have a significantly lower risk of cavities.
Adults prone to cavities can also benefit. Genetics, medications, and dry mouth can all increase cavity risk. Sealants offer extra protection for adults with deep grooves in their molars, helping prevent decay and the need for fillings.
Anyone seeking additional cavity prevention can consider sealants. They're a simple and effective way to safeguard your oral health and potentially avoid future dental procedures. Talk to your dentist about whether sealants are right for you.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants offer numerous advantages for maintaining good oral health:
- Reduced Cavity Risk: Studies show that sealants can significantly reduce the chances of cavities by 80% within two years and 50% within four years.
- Long-lasting Protection: With proper care, sealants can last up to nine years in the mouth. They are easily reapplied during routine dental checkups.
- Ideal for Children: Children are more prone to cavities in their back teeth due to the deep grooves in these molars. Sealants provide extra protection for these vulnerable areas.
- Painless and Easy Application: The application process is quick and painless. The liquid sealant is painted onto the tooth and hardens within a minute.
What to Expect During Dental Sealant Treatment
The application of dental sealants is a straightforward procedure:
- Examination: Dr. Ashkan F. Namini or our dentists will first examine the teeth to be sealed, checking for any decay.
- Cleaning and Preparation: The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned and prepared to ensure optimal bonding with the sealant.
- Sealant Application: The liquid sealant is carefully painted onto the tooth and cured with a special light.
- Completion: The entire process typically takes just a few minutes.
Dental sealants are a valuable tool for promoting good oral health and preventing cavities. If you have any questions about dental sealants or would like to schedule an appointment, contact Somerset Family Dentistry at Bellflower, CA today.
