Dental sealants, also called fissure sealants, are rapidly becoming a common tool for dentist’s helping their patients preserve their teeth. Used primarily in the back of the mouth where molars are located, they protect the teeth that are harder to get to when brushing. If left unattended the food that gets caught in the tooth’s fissures and the bacteria that builds produces acids that then create cavities.
Sealants are protective coatings that are used on the chewing surfaces on molars that can help avoid decay and cavities. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry reports that dental sealants reduce cavities by 86%. Consider a dental sealant another extra layer of protection to maintain good dental health. The sealants can last up to 10 years and your dentist will be able to identify when it needs to be reapplied.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are beneficial for both kids and adults. When molars appear between 6 and 12, applying the sealants as soon as they erupt can help your child be cavity free in this area in their mouth. Less cavities saves your family a lot of pain and you a lot of money.
Dental sealants can also be helpful in securing baby teeth as they serve as placeholders for your child’s permanent teeth. Even when you are currently showing signs of decay, sealants can help to prevent further damage. Even in the absence of decay or cavities, adults with thin enamel, deep fissures on the molars or use orthodontic appliances are great candidates for dental sealants.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
Done in your dentist’s office, your teeth are cleaned and dried. An acidic gel is placed on your teeth to help the sealant bond to them. Once this sets, the gel will be rinsed off and your tooth will be dried again. The sealant is then applied to your teeth and is hardened with a dental curing light. You will want to avoid hard and sticky substances to avoid dislodging the sealant.
Talk with the Long Beach dental team at the office of Dr. Stephen A. Coates today about how dental sealants can help your family prevent cavities and avoid more costly dental procedures in the future. Book an appointment by calling us at 562-434-6414 or requesting a time here.
