Protecting your teeth is so important, especially when it comes to combating dreadful cavities. Brushing and flossing each day (multiple times per day) is a great start in terms of overall oral care. Additionally, seeing your dentist twice per year for your general dental checkups is a must. Follow up with additional visits when something needs to be addressed outside of the basics.
Here at Smile Hilliard, we go above and beyond for our patients – who we consider family – with proactive measures to ensure their oral health is as close to perfect as possible. One way of doing so is by applying dental sealants on our patients’ teeth, as a protective layer to prevent bacteria from harming the teeth at the back of the mouth – the premolars and molars.
Bacteria build-up can lead to:
- Tooth decay
- Tooth loss
- Gum disease
- Other health risks which can be avoided
Both children and adults alike can benefit from the easy application of dental sealants, as long as the permanent tooth has come in. Learn more about dental sealants below, and why we are excited to offer them to our patients when needed. Something so simple (and done in a snap) can make a world of difference in terms of your dental and overall health, now and in the years to come.
What Are Dental Sealants Made Of?
Dental sealants are made of a special resin material, which is thin like a liquid and can be applied easily to the surface of the premolars and molars. It is brushed onto the surface of the premolars and molars, with no pain or discomfort to the patient. Once the resin is set, the dental sealants will last for several years, and can be reapplied if/when they have worn off. Your dentist will let you know if it is time for a reapplication during a future examination.
Are Dental Sealants Applied To Every Tooth?
Due to the special shape and structure of the back teeth (molars and premolars), they are more susceptible to trapping food particles and other debris, which the other teeth most likely won’t due to their smoother surface.
Notice the grooves and crannies in those flat back teeth, which are great for chewing, but also run the risk of collecting particles which can lead to cavity formation.
Even if you brush and floss very well, it is nearly impossible to get every spot covered. Dental sealants protect these irregular grooves with a shield-like coating that won’t allow food and bacteria to get stuck inside and cause issues.
Additionally, the dental sealants we use at Smile Hilliard contain fluoride, making the teeth stronger from the outside in as they are well protected from cavities at the same time.
What Is The Process Of Applying Dental Sealants?
The application process is relatively simple.
The dental hygienist will get your teeth prepped and ready for the application of the resin by:
- Cleaning the teeth thoroughly
- Getting rid of any particles
- Polishing them smooth so they are as clean as can be before the dental sealant is applied to the teeth
- We delicately and deliberately brush the dental sealant resin onto the surface of the premolars and molars
- They are cured with a special hardening light which firmly bonds the resin material to the teeth
This bonding process takes less than a minute to complete. You are able to go about your day as normal once you leave the office, including eating and drinking. It’s no big deal, and well worth it, especially when you curb the cavities.
Tooth decay is nothing to take lightly. Preventive measures such as dental sealant application is one way to combat this issue. Oral health is directly connected to overall health, so take care of your teeth with regular dental checkups two times per year, as well as dental sealant application when suggested by your dentist. It is safe, affordable, and quick to administer, and you will worry less about cavities and other related oral issues in the future.
Book Your Visit
Are you interested in getting dental sealants for yourself or a family member? Please contact Smile Hilliard at your convenience and set up an appointment. We are happy to provide the information you need and answer any questions you may have about dental sealants before coming in for your dental appointment.
Please give us a call at (614) 953-5136, or request an appointment online, and we will get in touch swiftly to schedule your visit with Dr. Rachel M. Sanyk.
Our Hilliard, Ohio dental office is open Monday – Thursday, from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. We are currently accepting new patients. We look forward to seeing you soon and taking care of your dental health.
