Preventing cavities through oral hygiene regimen works, but additional protection from dental sealants is sometimes necessary. Cleaning the back teeth (molars) is sometimes difficult, and this could usher in problems like decay or cavities that often require costly dental treatments to correct. The safety provided by dental sealants helps to make cleaning the molars easy and keep them free of cavities.
The molars and premolars are typically recipients of dental sealants because they are the main teeth used for chewing, grinding and crushing foods. Each molar has nooks and crannies on the chewing surface, which makes proper cleaning hard, especially for children. Bacteria that cause cavities can also lurk in the crevices and feed on the debris, producing harmful acids that cause deterioration of the protective layer of the teeth, known as the enamel.
Brushing and flossing can remove most of the food particles on the teeth, but it is sometimes not thorough. The plaque caused by bacteria and saliva causes tooth decay and, ultimately, a cavity. Dental sealant is a plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. The sealant fills the grooves of the teeth to prevent bacteria and food debris from lurking there. Sealants do not replace brushing and flossing; instead, it supplements oral hygiene routines.
When dental sealants are applied to a tooth, the tooth is “sealed” and will not trap foods. This makes cleaning the tooth easier. Dental sealants penetrate the tooth enamel upon application. This ensures that the tooth bonds firmly with the sealant. With the tooth’s grooves filled and the sealant hardened, a thin, plastic barrier is formed.
Normally, children should get dental sealants as soon as the chewing surface of the molar or premolars has fully formed above the gum line. If the molars are sealed immediately, they emerge on the gums, the chances of decay or cavities significantly reduces. Generally, the wisdom teeth do not form until one reaches 17 years. Since the wisdom teeth are removed eventually, there is usually no need to apply the sealants.
The process of applying dental sealants is fast and causes no pain. Before the family dentist applies the sealant, they will properly clean and dry the teeth that need sealing. An acidic gel is rubbed over the teeth to roughen the surfaces and ensure the sealant material adheres firmly to the tooth. After a few seconds, the family dentist will rinse off the gel, dry the tooth properly and apply the sealant over the chewing surfaces. Afterward, a unique curing light is used to harden the sealant over the tooth surface.
Once the process is complete, the patient can leave the dental office. They are often reminded that the dental sealant is not an excuse to slack on oral hygiene routines. Regular dental appointments are important, as well.
Dental sealants make the teeth less vulnerable to tooth decay or cavities. To learn more about the process, book an appointment with the dentist for a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.providencefamilydentistry.com or call Providence Family Dentistry at (678) 496-7021 for an appointment in our Mableton office.
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