What Are Dental Sealants?
Grooves in the top of the molars usually trap more bacteria and tartar, meaning they are more susceptible to developing cavities. Dental sealants, an essential aspect of preventive dentistry, safeguard the molars from dental disease resulting from decay. These thin protective coatings are created from an invisible or milky-colored material that is brushed onto the occlusive surfaces of the permanent molars. As soon as they're dried, they can defend these teeth and produce a more even exterior, which is easier to clean. Dental sealants provided at Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC don't just help protect from cavities, but they can also lessen your kids' need for tooth-colored fillings or other restorative treatments later on. Speak with us at your twice-yearly dental appointments at our Saginaw, MI practice to determine if you or your child could benefit from dental sealants.
What Is the Sealant Process?
As a first step, we will need to examine the teeth to learn if dental sealants are the ideal treatment for you or your family. To prepare your mouth for sealants, we will polish the teeth to remove any buildup, food debris, and bacteria from the chewing surfaces. The enamel is then dried, and a small layer of sealant product will be applied precisely into the rifts using a small brush. A special curing light will be set on top of the tooth, hardening the sealant covering in roughly 10 – 20 seconds. When each sealant is set, our team will evaluate your chewing surfaces for alignment and give you instructions on how to take care of your sealants best.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?
At Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC, we recommend sealants for many of our Saginaw, MI patients as an additional protective step for their teeth. These sealants allow for several advantages, such as:
- Preserve effort and money by keeping your teeth healthy
- Protection against tartar and plaque accumulation
- Notable amount of protection against decay
- Discreet, natural-looking material
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental sealants only for children, or can adults benefit too?
While dental sealants are commonly associated with children, adults can also benefit from them. If you have deep grooves or fissures in your molars that are prone to trapping food particles and bacteria, sealants can provide an extra layer of protection against cavities. It's essential to consult with your dentist to determine if sealants are appropriate for your dental health needs.
How long do dental sealants typically last?
Dental sealants can last several years, often ranging from 5 to 10 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene practices and chewing habits. Regular dental check-ups are crucial to monitor the condition of the sealants and determine if reapplication is necessary. Sealants may wear down over time, especially with the consumption of hard or sticky foods.
Can dental sealants be applied over existing cavities or fillings?
Dental sealants are preventive measures and are most effective when applied to healthy teeth without decay. If a tooth already has a cavity or filling, the sealant may not adhere properly or provide the intended protection. However, in some cases, sealants can be used to cover early signs of decay to prevent further damage, but this should be evaluated by a dental professional.
Protect Teeth from Tooth Decay
Protect against decay and allow your loved ones to maintain bright, healthy smiles for many years. Sealants are a quick and easy service at Benjamin Lievense, DDS PLLC that can reduce the chances of future oral procedures and pave the way for elevated oral health. Learn if dental sealants are suitable for you or your children by scheduling a visit at our Saginaw, MI practice today!