Maintaining proper oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing and professional dental cleanings is crucial for having a healthy mouth and teeth, but there are certain areas on the surface of your back teeth that are rough and contain pits and fissures. Dental sealants are a thin coating of liquid plastic that is applied to your back molars to seal out and smooth their surface and prevent the deposit of bacteria and food particles.
The material of the dental sealant acts as a barrier and molds into the grooves and fissures, making them smooth and preventing food and bacteria from gathering there. Though they are typically used for children, sealants have been found to be equally effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay in adults.
The process of applying dental sealants to the teeth begins with thoroughly cleaning the teeth to get rid of tartar and plaque deposits. A piece of cotton is placed on the cleaned teeth to keep them dry during the treatment. Next, an etching gel is applied to the teeth to further roughen the surface so that the sealant can bond properly. The etching solution is cleaned off after a while, and the teeth are dried again. The sealant material is then applied to the teeth and allowed to bond to the chewing surface.
With proper care, sealants can last and protect your teeth for up to ten years. You should regularly visit our office for checkups so that we can evaluate your sealants for chipping and wear. They can be easily repaired by adding more sealant material to the tooth.
For more information about the benefits offered by dental sealants, please feel free to contact our office for an appointment. Our experts will assist you in understanding how sealants will be effective and helpful in preventing tooth decay for you. You can call us at (978) 234-4334.
