Did you know that everyone will have at least one cavity within their lifetime? Unfortunately, most people wait for a toothache before heading to the Cameron Park dentist. The good news is that dental professionals can apply dental sealants on back teeth to help prevent tooth decay and cavities.
Answers to the Most Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
What Is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a thin layer of white, clear, or slightly tinted dental-grade plastic that dentists use to cover the chewing surfaces of a patient’s molars and premolars, where tooth decay usually develops. Once painted on these areas, the sealants act as barriers that protect teeth from the entry of food particles and oral bacteria. Consequently, they reduce the risk of cavities.
What Are the Benefits of Getting Dental Sealants?
Besides offering maximum protection to your teeth’s pitted areas against food and plaque, dental sealants promote good oral health by preventing food particles from getting stuck in areas your toothbrush can’t reach. What’s more, they’re durable and long-lasting.
When Are Dental Sealants Recommended?
Dentists typically recommend dental sealants to prevent or treat ongoing tooth decay. While they usually install sealants before tooth decay develops in pitted areas, sealants may also be applied at the onset of decay. Moreover, dental professionals can also use sealants to cover the cavities and caries to prevent further damage.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are suitable for any patient, regardless of age. However, they’re recommended for children to avoid decay early on. Dental sealants can also help teens protect their permanent teeth. Likewise, they can benefit adults with no fillings or decay on their molars.
Do Dental Sealants Involve a Painful Procedure?
Thanks to the advancements in dental technology, dental sealant application involves a simple, non-invasive, and pain-free procedure.
How Do Dentists Apply Dental Sealants?
First, the dentist prepares the teeth by thoroughly cleaning their depressions and grooves. Next, they’ll dry the teeth by placing an absorbent material around each tooth. Once the teeth are dry, they’ll apply an acid solution to the enamel to give it a rough texture. Lastly, they’ll rinse and dry the teeth before installing the sealant on their surfaces.
Will They Make Teeth Feel Different?
Dental sealants harden to a coating as they bond to teeth. Since the thin plastic fills the back teeth’s pits and grooves, most patients feel the change in the surface when they run their tongues over the chewing surfaces of their teeth shortly after the dentist places the sealants. Others feel like they’re biting onto something at first. However, the unusual feeling typically goes away after a few days.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can effectively seal teeth for up to ten years after placement. To ensure they stay in place, it’s best to schedule regular dental checkups. When your sealants start showing signs of excessive wear or damage, you’ll want to visit your dentist immediately so that they can fix them. Without a sealant’s protection, your tooth can be subject to decay.
Looking for a Cameron Park Dentist?
At Forest Ridge Dental Group, our state-of-the-art facility and outstanding service ensure the finest dental care for the whole family in a comfortable and soothing atmosphere. Contact us today to learn more about dental sealants or to make an appointment.
