Dental Sealants 101: Everything You Need to Know
Maintaining excellent at-home oral hygiene practices, including daily brushing and flossing, is one of the best ways to prevent cavities. However, it’s not always easy to clean every nook or crevice, especially on the back teeth. At High Street Dentistry, we offer a range of preventive dentistry services, including dental sealants, to protect these teeth and lower the risk of cavities. Here’s all you need to know about dental sealants and how they promote long-term oral health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
The back teeth, known as the molars and premolars, have pits and grooves that can trap food particles and bacteria, leaving them prone to decay. Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings we apply to these chewing surfaces where they create a protective seal, preventing plaque and debris from accumulating in hard-to-clean areas.
Dental sealants offer a quick, pain-free, and cost-effective way to reduce the risk of cavities, especially for younger patients who struggle with proper brushing techniques. They have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of decay.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
We typically recommend placing dental sealants for children around age six when their first molars erupt and again at age 12 when the second set of molars comes in. Sealing those permanent teeth right from the start can help keep cavities at bay. If, however, your child has missed these milestones, it’s never too late to place sealants.
Can Adults Get Dental Sealants?
A misconception is that sealants are only for children. The truth is that sealants can be beneficial for anyone. Older teens and adults with cavity-free molars, particularly those with deep grooves in their teeth, are excellent candidates. Sealants are especially recommended for individuals who are prone to developing cavities.
What Is the Dental Sealants Application Process?
Placing dental sealants is a quick and simple process. We will start by cleaning and drying the molars or premolars, followed by applying an etching gel to help the sealant material bond to the tooth surfaces. Next, we will paint on the sealant material and use a curing light to harden it. The entire process takes a few minutes to complete.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
It’s important to care for dental sealants to ensure their longevity. We recommend regular brushing and flossing, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages, and avoiding biting down on hard foods or candies that can damage the sealant material. It’s also essential to visit High Street Dentistry for your twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. If the sealant material shows signs of damage, we may recommend replacing it. With proper care and maintenance, dental sealants can last up to a decade or even longer!
Dental Sealants Near Me in Jefferson City, MO
Ready to learn more about safeguarding your smile? Visit High Street Dentistry to learn more about our preventive dentistry services, including dental sealants. The quick and non-invasive procedure can keep tooth decay at bay, ensuring long-term healthy and cavity-free smiles. Call (573) 636-7432 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!