Guarding your smile from tooth decay is more than just diligent brushing and flossing. There’s a powerful ally in the fight against cavities – dental sealants. Acting as a shield, dental sealants provide extra protection for your teeth, specifically targeting the hard-to-reach nooks and crannies susceptible to decay.
Welcome to Edwards Family Dental in Dublin, OH, where we place a strong emphasis on preventive treatments. Leveraging advanced dentistry techniques and materials, our practice offers services like dental sealants to fortify your oral health and keep your smile radiant.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are protective coatings, typically made of resin, applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They are a preventive treatment, shielding the grooves and fissures of teeth from plaque and decay.
These sealants are particularly useful for molars and premolars, which often have deep fissures. These back teeth are prime targets for food particles and cavity-causing bacteria, creating perfect conditions for decay. The regular toothbrush bristles might not effectively clean these areas, but a sealant can help.
Despite common misconceptions, the process of getting a dental sealant is a painless process. Plus, sealants aren’t a substitute for brushing or flossing; they enhance these practices, bolstering the benefits of fluoride toothpaste and regular hygiene habits.
Advantages of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can be a significant advantage in maintaining oral health, especially for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Dental Association (ADA), sealants prevent 80% of cavities for two years after application and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to four years.
Sealants aren’t just for baby teeth or kids, though. Adults with deep fissures in their permanent teeth can benefit as well. Sealants prevent decay and can save time, discomfort, and money in the long run by reducing the need for fillings or more complex dental care.
Moreover, dental sealants are safe. Dental materials used, including BPA-free resin, adhere to stringent health and safety guidelines. They’re a proven method in the realm of preventive dentistry and an endorsed practice in pediatric dentistry.
How are Dental Sealants Applied?
Getting a dental sealant is a straightforward and quick procedure at Edwards Family Dental. The steps involve:
- Cleaning the tooth surface: The dentist or hygienist thoroughly cleans the tooth using a paste and rotating brush.
- Drying the tooth: The tooth is dried, and cotton or another absorbent material is placed around the tooth to keep it dry.
- Applying the gel: An acid solution, or gel, is put on the tooth’s chewing surface for a few seconds before being rinsed off.
- Applying the dental sealant: The sealant material is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens.
- Curing the sealant: A special curing light is used to help the sealant harden.
Remember, sealants provide a protective shield, not a cure. Regular check-ups and a good oral hygiene routine remain vital for overall oral health.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Dental sealants are designed to be a long-term preventive treatment. With proper care, they can last for several years. However, they do require regular check-ups to ensure they’re still intact and doing their job correctly.
Wear and tear from chewing can lead to sealants wearing off over time. If this happens, there’s no cause for alarm. The dental sealant can be easily reapplied by your dentist during a routine dental office visit.
Finally, it’s essential to understand that while dental sealants are highly effective, they do not provide complete protection. Regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and professional cleanings remain crucial for maintaining healthy dentition.
Contact Edwards Family Dental for Sealants in Dublin, OH
Edwards Family Dental is proud to offer dental sealants as part of our comprehensive approach to dental care. Our skilled team is committed to helping you and your family maintain optimal oral health. If you’re ready to take a proactive step against tooth decay, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today and protect your smile with dental sealants. Contact us to schedule an appointment!
