15 Jun Purpose of a Dental Sealant
Our family dentist provides preventive oral health treatments that can thwart the development of common disease. Preventing disease not only preserves oral health, it can help keep one’s healthcare costs low. When common conditions like tooth decay progress without treatment, it can cause permanent damage to one’s teeth along with affecting the health of surrounding tissue including the gums and bone. Treating advanced and untreated tooth decay is also expensive and sometimes invasive. One way to prevent decay – especially among children – is for our family dentist to place a dental sealant. A dental sealant is applied over the biting surfaces of teeth to fill in their pits and grooves. A sealant essentially provides a protective barrier between teeth and cavity-causing bacteria.
What makes up a dental sealant?
A sealant is actually made from plastic. It is placed on the biting surfaces of teeth in liquid form. The sealing compound is then cured with a light that hardens it. Dental sealants are clear and very thin. Although they are thin, they effectively protect teeth from oral bacteria.
Is receiving a sealant comfortable?
Yes, receiving a sealant is not an invasive procedure. This is why many parents choose this preventive treatment as a way to protect their children’s teeth from tooth decay. Since a dental sealant is not invasive, this treatment does not require drilling or a local anesthetic.
What else can I do to prevent tooth decay?
There are other aspects to preventing tooth decay beyond this particular procedure. While a dental sealant is helpful for protecting the biting surfaces of teeth, there are other preventive measures people should take to take care of their teeth. First, vigilant oral hygiene is imperative for keeping teeth and gums free of plaque and tartar. Regular checkups and cleanings are important as well. Another popular preventive treatment involves the application of a fluoride varnish. This treatment replenishes tooth enamel with minerals to help strengthen teeth. Lastly, one’s diet needs to be low in sugar because sugar feeds oral bacteria.
Call us today to ask questions or schedule an appointment at our family-friendly practice.