What are Protective Dental Sealants?
Wouldn’t it be great if you or your child could avoid the pain and discomfort of tooth decay by some miracle of modern dentistry? Well…that miracle already exists, and it’s available at a dentist in your area where we can save you and your child from needless pain and financial hardship!
Dental Sealants Protect Precious Teeth
Your back teeth (molars) contain ridges and indentations that your toothbrush may not reach. As a result, these are prime “hot spots” for tooth decay. Dental sealants help to protect these teeth from decay – especially important when your child gets those all-important first permanent molars.
Having dental protective sealants applied to teeth before they decay saves needless time, pain and money because they help you to avoid the procedures needed to fix decayed teeth!
How Do Sealants Work?
A protective sealant is made up of a clear, film-like material that the dentist applies to the surface of back teeth. This material quickly bonds to the grooves and ridges imbedded in the chewing surfaces of the teeth, forming a protective barrier that keeps decay-producing bacteria away from tooth surfaces, helping to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
The protective sealant application is fast and easy! The dentist prepares each tooth by cleaning it thoroughly. Next, a bonding agent is applied to make the sealant ‘stick” to the tooth. Then the sealant is “painted” on to each tooth. The protective dental sealant is allowed to dry and harden, forming a protective bond on the tooth surface.
Ten minutes is about all it takes for approximately five years of protection! And…sealants can be reapplied as they age or show signs of cracking or wear.
Who Should Get Sealants?
Well, for starters, children around the age of six, who have gotten their first permanent molars and teenagers and adults who experience frequent tooth decay.
Adults with chronic dry mouth may also benefit from the application of sealants because the lack of saliva, which offers some protection from tooth decay, leaves teeth more susceptible to tooth decay.
Want to Know More?
Many people don’t know about the protective properties of sealants; in fact, you may never have even heard of them. Well, rest assured, the dentist has been applying them for years with many healthy and happy smiles to show for it!
Call a participating dentist in your area with any questions you might have – we’re always available to share our success stories!