Dentist Orchards
Sealants are highly effective in preventing tooth decay and cavities on your molars and premolars. These areas are the most susceptible to cavities due to the anatomized grooves.
Typically, children get sealants on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come in. These sealants can protect the teeth through the cavity-prone years of ages 6 to 14. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
Dental Sealants For Children & Teens
Adolescents, teens, and toddlers are more prone to cavities since their teeth and bodies are still developing. This growth makes them more vulnerable to viruses and bacteria that cause tooth decay. Dental sealants provide an effective barrier against these threats, safeguarding their evolving teeth from cavities during these crucial years.
Dental Sealants For Adults
For adults, dental sealants applied during childhood might wear off over time. Even though adults often have stronger immune systems and better oral hygiene, factors like diet and underlying health issues can still lead to cavities. Applying sealants can be a proactive step to maintain oral health in adulthood.
Dental Sealants vs Fillings
Dental sealants and fillings serve different purposes: sealants act as preventive measures that are applied to healthy teeth to ward off cavities. Fillings are a treatment used to repair teeth after decay has occurred.
Sealants work to protect the teeth with a thin layer or thin coating of composite resin. Fillings use the same material but are applied more heavily.
Both play crucial roles in maintaining oral health but address different stages of dental care.
How Dental Sealants Are Applied
The process of applying sealants is easy and fast. The application steps are as follows:
- We thoroughly clean the teeth
- The teeth are dried
- A liquid solution is put on the chewing surfaces of the teeth
- The solution is hardened using a special curing light
Sealants act as a barrier and protect the enamel from plaque and acids. They may last for several years before a reapplication is needed. While the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay.
Sealants are not a substitute for taking care of your teeth. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene and keep up with professional dental cleanings. Also, sealants do not protect the teeth, so it is essential to continue to floss daily.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care. Regular dental check-ups are essential to monitor their condition and effectiveness over time. Maintaining an excellent brushing and flossing routine, where all food particles are removed, also helps to prolong the lifespan of your dental sealants.
Prevent Cavities With Dental Sealant Today
Don’t put off preventing cavities or risking tooth decay any longer. Today’s Dentistry in Vancouver’s Dentist Orchards is here to help treat and reduce the risk of damaging cavities. We’ll make sure to thoroughly identify cavities among the deep grooves of your teeth, and then clean the tooth before applying a dental filling to cover it.
Regardless of your age or the type of teeth you have, our team is here to protect every premolar, molar, and other tooth in your smile.
For more information or to request your first appointment for dental sealant, contact Today’s Dentistry.
