At Paragon Dental, our commitment to your oral health extends beyond regular checkups and cleanings. We are continuously seeking ways to prevent dental issues before they start. One of the most effective preventative measures we offer is dental sealants. This simple procedure can play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, a common problem that affects both children and adults.
Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay occurs most often. Despite being an easy and quick process, the benefits are substantial, providing a barrier against bacteria and food particles that brushing and flossing might miss. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their dental health options. Understanding what dental sealants are and how they protect your teeth can help you make informed decisions about your oral health care and that of your family. This protection is especially crucial for children and teenagers, whose eating habits can put them at increased risk for cavities.
What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Work?
Dental sealants are a type of preventive treatment we use at Paragon Dental to protect teeth from decay. They are thin, plastic coatings painted on the surfaces of primarily the back teeth—the molars and premolars. These teeth have grooves and depressions on their biting surfaces where food particles and bacteria are most likely to gather and are harder to clean even with thorough brushing. By applying sealants, we create a smooth, protective barrier that covers all these crevices, preventing food and bacteria from getting trapped.
The process of how they work is simple yet effective. Sealants quickly bond into the grooves and depressions of the teeth forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. This application acts as a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids. The sealant essentially seals out decay-causing bacteria and food, thus decreasing the risk of tooth decay. By adding this layer of protection, we help safeguard your oral health, especially in places that might be missed by regular brushing and flossing.
Applying dental sealants is beneficial for both children and adults, but they are particularly advantageous for children and teenagers who are still mastering effective oral hygiene habits. One of the primary benefits of dental sealants is their ability to prevent up to 80% of cavities in the molars. This is highly significant in younger patients, where proper dental hygiene might not yet be part of their routine, and in adults who are prone to cavities.
Another advantage is the cost-effectiveness of sealants. By preventing decay and cavities, sealants help avoid the need for more extensive—and expensive—dental treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canals later on. Additionally, sealants offer a pain-free way to protect teeth, with the application process being quick and non-invasive, which is especially important for children who might be anxious about dental visits. Overall, the benefits of getting sealants go beyond just medical advantages—they also provide peace of mind knowing that you are taking proactive steps to maintain oral health for yourself and your loved ones.
When you come into Paragon Dental to have sealants applied, we ensure the process is smooth and comfortable. First, the tooth or teeth to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned to remove any food particles or plaque. Next, each tooth is dried, and an absorbent material such as cotton is placed around the tooth to keep it dry during the procedure. We then apply a mild acid solution to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen them up a bit. This helps the sealant bond more effectively to the tooth’s surface.
After preparing the tooth, we rinse off the acid and dry the tooth again. The sealant is then carefully painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly and hardens. Sometimes, we use a special curing light to help the sealant harden. The entire process is quick and painless—taking only a few minutes per tooth. Once completed, the sealants form a protective shield, reducing the risk of decay significantly.
To maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your sealants, proper maintenance is key. Fortunately, taking care of sealants is straightforward. We recommend regular dental check-ups, during which we can check the condition of the sealants. These check-ups allow us to quickly address any issues, such as chipping or wear, before decay has a chance to set in. At home, continue to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. While sealants protect the areas they cover, other areas of your teeth are still vulnerable to decay without good hygiene practices.
Additionally, avoid habits that may cause wear or damage to your sealants like chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard objects. These sealants typically last several years before they need to be reapplied, but your actual experience can vary based on your oral habits. Remember, sealants are an investment in the long-term health of your teeth—a preventive measure that can save you time and discomfort down the road.
At Paragon Dental, our goal is to provide you with the best preventive care to ensure long-term dental health. Dental sealants are just one of the many effective tools we use to help prevent decay and maintain your beautiful smile. By understanding what dental sealants are, realizing their benefits, knowing what to expect during application, and following simple maintenance tips, you can enjoy the protective advantages that sealants offer.
Whether you’re considering preventive dental sealants for your children or yourself, we are here to provide you with all the information and care you need. Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss whether dental sealants are the right option for you or to schedule your next appointment. Let Paragon Dental help you achieve and maintain optimal dental health.
