Sealants are a great way to protect against tooth decay and cavities on back teeth. Studies prove that that tooth sealants are safe and effective as tooth protectors especially for children. Today, there are still many people out there who do not know about dental sealants.
What is dental sealant?
Dental sealant is the thin and plastic coating painted on the teeth’s chewing surface used to prevent tooth decay. The sealant immediately bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth and acts as protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.
Food particles and plaque setting on smooth surfaces of teeth are easily removed by brushing and flossing; however, food debris lodging on tiny crannies and nooks at the back teeth, cannot be reached by either tooth or floss. Sealant is used to cover these depressions and grooves.
Tooth Sealant for Kids
In the United States, fewer than 25% of children enjoyed the benefit of sealants in protecting their teeth. It is a fact that lots of kids developed decay in the depressions and grooves of the premolars and molars, so they are the great candidates for sealants. During the cavity-prone years from ages 6 to 14, children and teenagers should have sealants placed on their permanent molars and premolars as soon as these teeth come out as advanced protection
Dental sealants are also useful for baby teeth, during the time when a child’s milk teeth developed deep grooves and depressions. The correct spacing for baby’s permanent teeth is only possible when milk teeth are healthy and not lost before the sprouting of the permanent ones.
Of course adults are also welcome to share in the benefit of tooth sealants to protect their smiles.
How sealant is applied
Application of sealant is simple and painless; taking a few minutes depending upon how many teeth need to be sealed. The dentist thoroughly cleans the teeth to be sealed and exposes the grooves of the teeth while assessing the presence of decay. Then Dr. Doria prepares the chewing surfaces by using a solution, to help the sealant adhere to the teeth. The teeth are then rinsed and dried before the sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel as it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. To speed up the process we use a curing light in our Bayonne office to help the sealant harden even faster. The tooth sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years up to about a decade; but they do need regular checkup for chipping or wearing.
Professional Touch for Sealants
Dr. Doria can apply sealants to children’s and teenagers’ premolars and molars to protect them; sealants can protect adults’ teeth, too. Our Bayonne NJ office has all the information you need about sealants for your children or for yourself.
Family dentist Dr. Doria will give you and especially your kids the benefits of using sealant as teeth protector. For years, he has assisted families to maintain healthy white teeth. Our team are experts and offer a wide array of dental services to protect your smile. Schedule a visit to Dr. Doria’s Bayonne, New Jersey office by calling 201-823-9100.