Dental sealants are a coating the dentist and/or hygienist paints on your teeth that cover the bumps and crevices to help seal out bacteria, plaque, and food particles. Dental sealants are great for children and adults who frequently get cavities.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease found in American children. Fortunately, our dentist in Kalamazoo, MI, is able to help prevent cavities with dental sealants.
Dental Sealant Uses
Dental are used to protect molars (back teeth) from getting cavities. Children benefit from dental sealants because they’re more likely to neglect hard-to-reach back teeth when brushing.
While dental sealants are typically used for baby teeth, our dentist may also recommend them for adults if your back teeth have deep grooves or divots that collect plaque.
Sealant Safety
Yes, dental sealants are safe for both children and adults. The teeth are isolated to stay dry during the procedure. A conditioner is applied to the tooth to help with bonding the sealant.
After the conditioner is rinsed off and dried, a thin coating of the sealant material will be applied to the chewing surface of the tooth. The dental sealants procedure is painless, non-invasive, and safe.
Do Dental Sealants Work?
The answer is yes! Dental sealants work for people of all age groups. Most cavities that occur in children are on back teeth, dental sealants are a great way to protect your child’s smile.
Research from the shows that dental sealants prevent about 80% of cavities in the first 2 years. Dental sealants also prevent about 50% of cavities for up to 4 years after being applied to back teeth.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants have simple upkeep, and that is your normal oral hygiene habits. After you get dental sealants, continue to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day to get the food particles your toothbrush might have missed. Fluoride mouthwash is also a great tool to reinforce your enamel.
While some people will need to get a cavity filled at some point in their life, dental sealants are a great option in comparison to fillings. Sealants are a preventative measure whereas fillings are restorative. Sealants also cost less, and they’re non-invasive, unlike fillings.
Ready for an Appointment?
Are you looking to get dental sealants for you and/or your child? Our dentist in Kalamazoo, MI is accepting new patients! To request an appointment with Gentle Dentistry, call (269) 381-3890.