Dental Sealants: The Key to Protecting Your Teeth from Decay

Maintaining optimal oral health goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. While these habits are essential, certain areas of the teeth are more prone to cavities, making them challenging to clean thoroughly. Dental sealants provide a valuable solution to this problem. At Louie Family Dentistry, dental sealants are a thin, protective coating usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. However, it may also be used on the front surfaces. The coating is painted as a liquid and hardens into a strong plastic-like material that protects the teeth from decay.

The Procedure for Dental Sealants

Before applying the sealant, the tooth's surface is thoroughly cleaned and dried. The dentist may use a special etching gel to create a slightly rough texture on the tooth's surface. This step helps the sealant adhere securely to the tooth. Once the tooth is prepared, the sealant is applied as a liquid coating onto the tooth's surface. The liquid quickly hardens and bonds with the tooth enamel, forming a protective shield.

In some cases, a specialized curing light may accelerate the hardening process. After applying the sealant, the dentist will check its placement and ensure proper coverage. Any excess material will be removed, and your bite will be evaluated to ensure the sealant does not interfere with your occlusion. Once the sealants are in place, the dentist will ensure proper placement and evaluate their coverage. Regular dental check-ups will include monitoring the condition of the sealants, with any necessary touch-ups or replacements done as needed.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants

Early Prevention

Applying dental sealants at a young age provides maximum protection during the critical years when children's permanent teeth erupt. Since these newly erupted teeth have deeper grooves and pits, they are more susceptible to decay. By sealing off these vulnerable areas early on, sealants can help prevent the development of cavities and maintain long-term oral health.

Protection Against Cavities

Dental sealants act as a physical barrier, sealing off the deep grooves and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth. By creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface, sealants prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped and causing decay. They effectively reduce the risk of cavities in vulnerable areas of the teeth, such as the molars and premolars.

Improved Oral Hygiene

Sealants create a smooth surface easier to clean during regular brushing and flossing. By reducing the presence of deep grooves and fissures, sealants help children maintain better oral hygiene practices. The smoother tooth surface also discourages the buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria, contributing to overall oral health.

By applying a thin protective layer to the chewing surfaces, sealants create a barrier against bacteria and plaque accumulation, significantly reducing the risk of tooth decay. Visit Louie Family Dentistry at 41268 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94538, or call (510) 656-7778 to determine if dental sealants are right for you and take a proactive step towards safeguarding your smile from cavities.