Having a healthy smile is something we all strive for, and fortunately, there are various ways we can achieve a healthy and sparkling smile. At North Auburn Dentistry in Auburn, California, we offer preventative solutions like dental sealants to help our patients protect their smiles from decay and damage. Dental sealants are an excellent procedure that helps protect teeth that need extra protection, especially for patients prone to cavities or have deep grooves in their teeth.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to a tooth’s chewing surface. Dr. Brandon Dever will place the sealant on the back teeth, where most of the chewing takes place, and the sealants work to fill in the deep grooves and pits that can be difficult to clean with regular brushing. The sealant creates a smooth surface, keeping the tooth clean easier and preventing bacteria from building up.
The Dental Sealant Procedure
When you get a dental sealant at our office in Auburn, California, you may feel overwhelmed. However, it is essential to note that it is relatively non-invasive, and the process is quick and straightforward.
- Dental Cleaning: We will first clean your teeth before receiving a dental sealant. Cleaning your smile will help ensure there is no plaque, bacteria, or cavities before we place your dental sealant.
- Tooth Prep: Once your smile is fresh and sparkling, we will begin the preparation of your back molars. We will apply an acidic solution to the tooth surface to help the sealant adhere to the tooth better.
- Dental Sealant Placement: Once your teeth are ready, we will rinse and dry your teeth once more. We will then apply the sealant to your back molars, filling up the grooves and pits of the tooth’s surfaces. Once this is complete, we will test to ensure no air bubbles. Once confirmed that your sealants have been appropriately placed, we will bond the sealant to the tooth with the help of a special blue light.
Dental Sealants Aftercare
Although dental sealants are an excellent way to protect your smile, you must continue caring for your teeth with at-home care and bi-annual dental visits. Ensuring the longevity and maintenance of your dental sealants is the same as taking care of your smile, with simple tasks such as:
- Maintain regular brushing: Ensure you brush your teeth at least twice daily using fluoride-containing toothpaste. This helps remove plaque and leftover food particles that might be stuck on or around your dental sealants.
- Floss daily: Flossing is essential as it helps to clean the areas between your teeth where brushing might not reach.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: Avoid hard foods like ice or candy, as they may cause sealants to break. Sticky foods, such as caramel and taffy, can also pull at sealants, causing them to become loose.
- Regular dental checkups: Periodic visits to Dr. Dever are essential. He will check the condition of your dental sealants and see if any repair or reapplication is needed.
- Hydrate with water: Drinking water after meals can help wash away food particles and reduce the risk of tooth decay.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are an excellent way for children and some adults to protect their back teeth from decay. There are several benefits to this preventative treatment, including:
- Prevention of Tooth Decay: Dental sealants act as a barrier, protecting the enamel from plaque and acids and significantly reducing the risk of cavities.
- Long-lasting Protection: Dental sealants can protect against decay for up to 10 years if properly cared for.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to the cost of treating cavities, dental sealants are a cost-effective preventive treatment.
- Painless and Simple Procedure: Applying sealant is easy and quick without drilling or numbing.
- Safe and Effective: Numerous studies have proven the safety and effectiveness of dental sealants in preventing tooth decay.
- Beneficial for Both Children and Adults: While often recommended for children, adults can also benefit significantly from dental sealants.
Dental Sealants in Auburn, CA
Dental sealants are a simple and effective way to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. They are an excellent investment in oral health, especially for children and teenagers more prone to cavities. Taking extra precautions to protect your smile shouldn’t be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Dever, and his team, you can guarantee you will receive quality and comforting care at our office.
If you are considering dental sealants for you or your child in Auburn, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Dever to see if they are right for you.