Dental sealants are popular preventive dental procedures since they help prevent or arrest tooth decay. This is the most prevailing oral problem suffered by millions globally. Untreated mild decay can lead to extensive tooth damage, negatively impacting your oral health. Fortunately, preventive measures offered by the dentist in Germantown, TN help avoid the onset, or progression of oral diseases like tooth decay, and gum disease.
Let’s find out more about dental sealants and how they act as protective shields against tooth decay.
Why are dental sealants used?
Dental sealants are widely used by dentists to treat the following conditions:
- Pits and fissures of deciduous and permanent teeth
- Incipient carious lesions in children, adolescents, and adults
- Pits and grooves of permanent teeth in adults
- People with an increased risk of caries
- Teeth that are inaccessible to regular brushing and flossing
| Dental Sealants: Sealants are defined as thin, transparent varnish that is applied on the occlusal surfaces of the posterior teeth, namely the premolars and the molars. The sealants are in a liquid form, which, when applied, can effectively settle into the deep pits and grooves of the teeth, sealing them completely. |
How is a dental sealant applied?
Applying dental sealants is simple and a painless procedure. It usually takes 2 to 3 minutes for the dentist to apply sealant to each tooth. Your dentist will:
- Clean the teeth thoroughly
- Air dry your mouth and place a rubber dam, or a piece of gauze in the area to keep your teeth free from moisture
- Paint or coat a small amount of acid etching solution on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of your teeth to roughen them up. This aids in good mechanical interlocking if the sealant to the tooth surface
- Rinse and dry your teeth
- Paint the sealant onto your enamel to bond it directly to the tooth.
- Shine or target a curing light on the sealant material to harden it.
What are the benefits of getting dental sealants?
Here are a few incredible benefits sealants offer:
- Sealants protect against plaque and food buildup
- Sealants are suitable for all ages
- They prevent the development of cavities
- They reduce deep grooves
- The process is quick and painless
- They are long-lasting (last up to 10 years)
- It is easy to repair and maintain them
- Sealants are super affordable
- Reduce the need for invasive dental treatments in the future
Dental sealants are both highly efficient and cost-effective preventive measures, creating a protective shield against harmful bacteria responsible for oral diseases. By substantially reducing the risk of conditions like cavities, they promote optimal oral health and protect both your teeth and gums.
