Good dental hygiene can protect your teeth from a lot of dental problems such as cavities, decay, and discoloration, among others. Flossing and brushing can remove most of the plaque and food particles from your teeth, but some particles can get stuck in the nooks and crannies of your back teeth. Have you tried to protect your teeth with dental sealants?
DENTAL SEALANTS
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants or sealants are a thin coating made from plastic or other dental materials that are painted on your teeth to help protect them from acids and bacteria. A dental sealant adheres to the surface of your molars and premolars where food usually gets stuck and protects them from cavities. It is vital to note that a sealant is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. It helps to stop the early signs of decay and keeps the cavities from forming. The likelihood of developing decay is high in children and teenagers, and hence they are considered the best candidates for a dental sealant. A dental sealant is administered on a patient’s permanent molars and premolars, usually as soon as the teeth come out. It helps to protect the teeth from decay and cavity, especially during the age when they are susceptible to dental problems.
The Sealant Application Process
It is a misconception that a sealant is “just for kids.” Adults who do not have decay or fillings can also benefit from it. If you have doubts about whether you are an eligible candidate for a dental sealant, visit us at Smiles on the Canal, and we will help you. During your appointment, your dentist will first examine your teeth and look for signs of dental problems. If you do not have decay, chips, cracks, or any such dental issues, you are considered an eligible candidate for a dental sealant. The process is simple, painless, and only takes a few minutes.
Your dentist will start by thoroughly cleaning your teeth. Once the teeth are cleaned, each tooth is dried, and a cotton swab or an absorbent material is positioned around the tooth to keep it dry. To roughen the chewing surface, an acid solution is applied on the molars and premolars. This process helps the sealant to bond with the teeth. You will then be asked to rinse, and your teeth are dried again. Cotton swabs or absorbent materials are placed around the tooth, and the sealant is applied onto the tooth enamel. The enamel bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. A dental curing light may be used to help the sealant harden. Once the dental sealant hardens, your dentist will evaluate if the sealing process is now finished.

How Can You Protect Your Teeth?
There are no side effects related to dental sealants with the exception of the possibility of an allergic reaction in some people. There is a tiny amount of BPA present in the sealant, but this does not cause any harm. Dental sealants are considered safe for use on children and even on babies who have teeth and are susceptible to damage. As sealants last for several years, it is regarded as the best solution to protect your molars and premolars.
If you are considering protecting your teeth with a dental sealant, call us and book an appointment with our experienced dentists at Smiles on the Canal.
Practice Hours:
Monday → 8AM – 5PM
Tuesday → 8AM – 5PM
Wednesday → 8AM – 5PM
Thursday → 8AM – 5PM
Friday → 8AM – 3PM
Saturday & Sunday → CLOSED