Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a preventive dental treatment that involves applying a thin, plastic coating to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas are particularly prone to decay due to their grooves and pits, which can trap food particles and bacteria. The sealant acts as a protective barrier, sealing off these vulnerable areas and preventing bacteria from settling in. It effectively "seals out" decay-causing elements such as plaque and acids from food. 

It's important to note that although dental sealants provide excellent protection against decay on chewing surfaces, they do not replace regular brushing, flossing, or routine visits to your dentist for cleanings and check-ups. So think of them as an added layer of defense in your fight against cavities!

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants offer a multitude of benefits when it comes to maintaining good oral health.

• One significant advantage is their ability to prevent tooth decay. By creating a protective barrier over the teeth, sealants act as a shield against bacteria and plaque buildup that can lead to cavities.
• Another benefit of dental sealants is their longevity. Once applied, they can last for several years with proper care and maintenance. This makes them an excellent investment in preventing future dental issues and potentially saving on costly treatments down the road.
• Furthermore, dental sealants are non-invasive and painless. The procedure involves simply brushing a thin layer of resin onto the surface of the teeth without any drilling or discomfort involved. It is quick and convenient, making it an ideal option for patients of all ages.
• Additionally, children greatly benefit from dental sealants since they are more prone to cavities due to their developing oral hygiene habits. Sealants provide an extra layer of protection during these critical years when establishing good oral health practices.

Dental sealants offer numerous advantages such as cavity prevention, durability, ease of application, and suitability for children. Considering these benefits, it's clear why many dentists recommend this simple yet effective solution for maintaining optimal oral health.

The Procedure of Applying Dental Sealants

The procedure of applying dental sealants is a simple and painless process that can be done in just one visit to your Dentist in Riverside, CA . It involves several steps to ensure the sealants are properly applied and provide maximum protection for your teeth.

First, the dentist will thoroughly clean and dry the teeth that will receive the sealants. This helps to remove any plaque or debris from the surface of the tooth, ensuring a strong bond between the tooth and sealant material. Next, an etching gel is applied to roughen up the surface of the tooth. This creates a better surface for the sealant material to adhere to. The gel is then rinsed off, and again, the teeth are dried. Once prepared, the dentist will simply paint a thin layer of liquid dental resin onto each tooth's chewing surface. The resin bonds quickly with your tooth enamel due to its adhesive properties. To harden and set this resin into place, a special curing light is used by shining it directly onto each sealed tooth for a few seconds. This light activates chemicals within the resin, which causes it to harden almost instantly. After all teeth have been sealed and checked for proper placement, you'll be free to eat or drink as normal without worrying about damaging these newly protected surfaces! Getting dental sealants applied is quick, easy and pain-free - providing long-lasting protection against cavities!

Who Can Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a great preventive measure for both children and adults. Children between the ages of 6 and 14 are the prime candidates for dental sealants, as this is when their permanent molars start to erupt. Applying sealants during this time can protect these vulnerable teeth from decay.

However, dental sealants aren't just for kids! Adults who have deep grooves or pits in their teeth can also benefit from getting dental sealants. It's never too late to take steps towards better oral health and protecting your teeth from cavities.

Dental sealants are a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. By creating a barrier against bacteria and plaque, they help keep your smile healthy for years to come.

So why not talk to your dentist today about whether dental sealants are right for you or your child? Take that proactive step toward maintaining optimal oral health – it's worth it! For the best dental care customized to your needs, visit Riverside Tooth Co. at 6886 Indiana Ave Suite B, Riverside 92506, or call (951) 686-2565.