Improve The Health of Your Smile with Dental Sealants
Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent dental conditions in the United States today. Cavities affect both children and adults alike, and for the most part, they are largely preventable. The molars are particularly susceptible to decay; with their deep grooves and crevices, they can be hard to effectively clean while brushing. Dental sealants are a proven treatment to protect the molars from plaque-build up and prevent the development of cavities. At Albrecht Family Dentistry in West Bend, Wisconsin, we often recommend dental sealants for kids after the emergence of their molars.
Dental sealants explained
Dental sealants are a clear tooth-colored protective coating painted over the surfaces of back teeth to prevent cavities. They are most frequently used on molars in the back of the mouth because they are particularly difficult to brush effectively, especially for young children just learning proper oral hygiene. They work by preventing the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, or food debris from becoming trapped in the crevices of the back molar, which reduces the rate of cavities in these teeth.
What to expect with dental sealants
Having sealants placed on the teeth is a quick dental treatment. The entire process is so fast that we often do it at the end of a dental cleaning. The teeth must be professionally cleaned before the placement of sealants.
Once the teeth are thoroughly cleaned, we will dry them and apply an acidic solution to the teeth. The purpose of this is to roughen the tooth’s surface to allow the sealant to adhere effectively. A thin coating of the sealant is then painted onto the surfaces of the teeth and hardened with a special light. We will then shape and polish the sealant so that your bite feels comfortable and natural.
Prevention for both kids and adults
It is true that dental sealants are most often used on kids to prevent decay; however, they can also be effective on adults. Adults are just as susceptible to developing cavities, so dental sealants can offer the same level of protection that they do for children. Dental sealants can also be used to treat sensitive teeth. It is important to note that sealants will wear out over time, so they will need to be replaced to maintain protection long term.
If you would like to schedule an exam or want to learn more about the benefits of dental sealants for yourself or your kids, please call Albrecht Family Dentistry in West Bend, WI today at (262) 357-6622.
