A sealant is one of the preferred protective treatments against tooth decay. Tooth decay is a commonly occurring dental problem that affects people of all ages. It’s quite a task to clean every nook and corner of your teeth properly. The molars and premolars are especially problematic to clean with regular brushing and flossing. Molars are rough and uneven, a vulnerable spot for the accumulation of food particles and harmful bacteria.
A sealant is a thin, plastic layer of coating that can ward off cavities for many years when applied on the chewing surface of the teeth. The sealant ensures the protection of the teeth by blocking out food particles and bacteria. In doing so, they help prevent tooth decay and cavities. Also, sealants eliminated the need for dental fillings. In addition, dental sealants, when applied on the teeth’ surfaces, are barely visible since they are made of plastic or resin-based material.
Children are often in greater danger of developing cavities because of their sugar intake and inadequate oral hygiene. A child starts to get their first molars at the age of six, and the second molars grow out around the age of twelve. If these teeth are sealed as soon as they erupt, it will help keep them cavity-free. Dental sealants can also benefit teens and adults as an excellent preventive treatment for dental decay or fillings.
The process of applying dental sealants is fast and pain-free. First, the teeth where the sealant is to be applied are cleaned and dried. A low-acidic solution is smeared on the teeth to enable the sealant to bond to them. The dentist will then apply a thin layer of sealant over each tooth, bonding with the tooth enamel.
The sealant will harden and then form a protective shield between teeth and bacteria. The whole dental sealant procedure takes just a few minutes. It takes less time than getting a filling.
The dental sealant procedure may take just a couple of minutes to put on, but its effects can last for up to a decade or more. Sealants may need to be replaced if they suffer significant cracks. When you go for your dental visits, your dentist can monitor the condition of the sealant. If required, the sealant can be reapplied again. It is generally advised to use fluoride toothpaste or mouthwashes to keep your mouth clean and healthy. They will help prevent dental decay and cavities.
Call us at Shepherd Dental or schedule an online appointment to know more about the dental sealant treatment.
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