Sealants: The super-easy “secret” to protecting vulnerable back teeth from destructive decay
Why treat when you can prevent? At The Art of Dentistry, we have many “allies” when it comes to protecting your teeth from decay and other forms of damage. However, few services available at our office in Lilburn, Georgia, are as easy, gentle, conservative, cost-effective, and proven as dental sealants when it comes to keeping your teeth free of decay. It is our great pleasure to introduce you to the power and ease of this professional preventative service via a few of the common questions that we get from our favorite patients.
What are dental sealants?
Sealants live up to their name. They are thin layers of BPA-free plastic. Once applied to decay-prone back teeth, they “seal out” food particles and other substances that promote the development of dental decay.
What teeth can be treated with sealants?
Sealants are most appropriate for the back-most teeth at the corners of the mouth. These teeth include the molars and premolars. It’s estimated that most (90%) cavities develop in these teeth, not only due to their location, but also to their grooved or uneven surfaces. Food particles tend to become trapped in these grooves, pits, and fissures. When this happens, bacteria in the mouth may feed off of the starches and sugars. This produces a destructive process of acids that attack the teeth and can also erode the gums and other tissues. By covering up and filling in these vulnerable areas, the food stays out, and your tooth structure remains protected.
Am I a good candidate for sealants?
Dental sealants are often referred to in the context of pediatric dentistry. The reason for this is we want to stay ahead of problems as much as possible. So, our dentist, Dr. Moosa Dalwai, may suggest the application of sealants as soon as your child’s first molars come in — around the age of six. However, sealants are not just for kids. Adults may also experience less decay when dental sealants are applied. So, it can be a good, no-hassle investment in your oral and overall health, especially if you are encountering new challenges to your good oral health or hygiene with the passage of time.
How do you apply sealants at The Art of Dentistry?
Easily! Dr. Dalwai cleans the teeth to be treated. After the teeth are dried, a conditioning liquid may be applied to ensure a strong bond between sealant and tooth structure. Then, Dr. Dalwai painlessly paints the sealant material on the tooth surface as a liquid. The liquid seeps into the grooves and depressions of the teeth. Once we have ensured adequate coverage and protection with the sealant, it is hardened using a special curing light. We can also make any adjustments to support a natural “bite,” so you shouldn’t feel anything different with the sealant in your mouth. Plus, our team in Lilburn, GA, regularly checks that your sealant is holding up well during routine check-ups.
To find out more about the many benefits of protective sealants, schedule a check-up today. Our office can be reached at (470) 570-9699.
