Everything You Need To Know About Dental Sealants

Have you heard of the dental sealants? These are one of the common dental procedures for preventing tooth decay and cavities. Dentist near ON says that it’s a plastic like protective layer applied to the grooves of molars and pre-molars. They prevent the food and plaque from coming in direct touch with the tooth so the risk of decay is eliminated.

What Is a Dental Sealant?

It is a preventive remedy for keeping tooth decay at bay. The protective gel is applied to the grooves of the molars and pre-molars. This acts as a defensive coating which is filled in the pits, fissures, and grooves, making a smooth surface which is easy to clean with a toothbrush.

Who Is It For?

The treatment is usually designed for children between the age of 6 to 11 and teenagers between the ages of 12 to 19. However, adults with increased risk of cavity and decay can also benefit from the treatment.

How Long Does It Last?

The lifespan of the coating varies depending on various factors. Once the procedure has been done, the dentist will examine it during regular dental appointments and replace any damaged sealant if needed.

How Is It Applied?

The dentist first cleans the teeth and allows them to dry. He then applies an acidic gel on the molars and pre-molars so that the surface gets a bit rough. This allows the protective coating to bond effectively. The dentist then rinses the acidic gel and applies the protective coating on teeth. They also put some light on the teeth so that the coating hardens quickly. The procedure is absolutely pain free, cost-effective, and non-invasive. Since there’s no chance of pain, the dentist does not use any anesthetic. Once the procedure is complete, you can eat and drink immediately and there is no restriction or any recovery period.

One thing that people need to keep in mind is that the coating is an additional protection for the teeth and you need to complement it with regular brushing and flossing for maintaining optimum oral health. Visit our dentist at 14th Avenue Dentistry in Markham, ON, to consult about the need of dental sealants.