DENTAL SEALANTS
What are sealants?
Sealants are a protective shield that are white or clear in color and are placed along the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. At Govani Dental we believe that dental sealants can be a great option to help prevent and reduce the risk of dental decay. Sealants help by keeping bacteria and food from sitting into the grooves on your teeth that are harder to reach and keep clean.
Who can get sealants?
Children and adults may benefit from sealants, based on risk factors for decay. In children with risk for decay, the sooner dental sealants are placed on your teeth upon eruption into the dental arch the better. First permanent molars erupt around age 6 and second permanent molars around age 12. Sealing them as soon as possible will help keep cavities from forming. Patients who benefit from sealants have higher risk factors for decay such as: deep grooves in anatomy of teeth, high risk diets, poor oral hygiene, orthodontics, have hard to reach regions, or limited dexterity.
How do sealants work and how are they applied?
Sealants are a quick and pain free procedure completed by your hygienist or dentist. First, your teeth will be cleaned and dried. Then your tooth will be isolated and then a gel will be placed on your teeth. Next, the gel will be rinsed off with water and dried again before having the sealant material placed into the grooves of your tooth. A blue light is used to harden the sealant material onto the tooth. After applied, sealants will help keep food and bacteria from staying in the grooves of your teeth. When leaving the dental office you can eat and drink after the sealants have been placed. Remember sealants do not replace proper homecare routines so keep up those brushing and flossing habits.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants typically last several years after having the procedure performed. Sometimes sealants can chip away so keep up with your regular dental exams so we can evaluate the sealants. If needed, sealants can be added to, replaced or monitored.
We want to see your smile!
Keeping up with regular dental exams and cleanings is important to maintaining your dental health. Ask Dr. Govani and her team if sealants are a good option for you and your family! Please contact us to schedule your next dental visit or call 920-231-1955.
