Dental sealants prevent plaque and tartar buildup, protecting teeth from decay and avoiding costly treatments like crowns or implants. Applied as a thin, clear or tooth-colored coating, sealants fill tooth grooves to block bacteria. A curing light hardens the sealant quickly.
Dental sealants are a great way to protect your teeth. If you are concerned about tooth decay or cavities impacting the quality of oral health for you or your children, dental sealants are an effective way to shield the teeth and provide an extra layer of protection against plaque build-up. This protective shield can last several months, but it is definitely not a substitute for regular brushing or flossing.
At Comfort Dental Care and Orthodontics, we believe in making the dental sealant procedure as comfortable and convenient as possible. During your procedure, first, your teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned so as not to accidentally seal in bacteria. Then a special liquid is added to the teeth so that the sealant can properly attach, and a clear or tooth-colored sealant is painted directly onto your teeth.
A special light is then used to harden the sealant so it acts as a barrier between your teeth and any food or debris that could cause decay.
There is no special preparation necessary for dental sealants, other than scheduling your appointment now. You should brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before having dental sealant applied; however, we will also “buff” your teeth during the procedure so as to make it easier for the sealant to adhere to them. Each tooth can take approximately 3-5 minutes to properly seal, and a rubber dam may be used to help keep each tooth isolated as the dentist works.
During your consultation for dental sealants, we will carefully examine your mouth and teeth to determine the proper application of the sealant, in addition to answering any questions you may have and explaining each step of the process so you’ll know precisely what to expect.
If you want to protect your teeth against cavities, dental sealants are an excellent option. Contact our Crestview, Pensacola or Mary Esther locations to schedule an appointment to discuss dental sealant treatment.
