Dental Sealants
Surprise, AZ
Frequent flossing of the teeth and brushing using fluoride toothpaste will help prevent cavities.
However, cleaning every cranny and nook of your mouth can at times be difficult. The toothbrush's bristles cannot reach deep into the tooth grooves.
This will leave cavity-causing bacteria in the teeth's small crevices. Dental sealants offer a great solution to this problem.
Here at Surprise Smiles, we have compassionate and friendly dentists willing and happy to work with any patient restoring their smile. We offer dental sealants and other preventive services at our offices in the Surprise, AZ area.
What Is Tooth Decay?
Long after you eat, food particles can linger in the mouth. Without proper brushing and flossing, bacteria that gets into your mouth uses that leftover food as their own food. They create acids that eat away at your tooth's enamel, leading to decay.
Left untreated, decay can destroy your teeth, leading to a whole host of other problems, such as the loss of the tooth and infections.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants refer to a thin plastic coating painted onto the back molars, creating a smooth surface to seal out any cavity-causing and harmful bacteria. They fill the deep grooves and fissures.
Who Gets Sealants?
Typically, sealants are given to children, put on their permanent molars as soon as they come in. This is because children are more prone to cavities up into early adolescence.
Adults can be excellent candidates as well. Sealants are a great preventative measure for just about everyone.
The Process of Applying Dental Sealants
Dentists are responsible for applying dental sealants.
Numbing is never necessary since no discomfort will be associated with applying dental sealant.
When applying dental sealants, the teeth must first be cleaned, dried, and etched.
Cotton rolls are usually placed surrounding the teeth to help keep them dry.
Any tartar or plaque has to be removed.
Every tooth is treated using a mild solution that will kill any available bacteria. The solution will make the surface rough, which dental sealant will adhere to much better.
The dental sealant will then be painted and hardened. Every tooth surface will be painted with the sealant using an applicator or a small brush. Spaces between the teeth are spared; allowing the ability to floss.
After that, a special light is used to harden the sealant.
The teeth are then examined to ensure all the grooves are well covered.
What Are Dental Sealants Made Of?
Dental sealants are made of composite resin crafted from a plastic-type acrylic resin. The material is durable and will offer the same color as the natural teeth.
How Effective Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are easy, fast, and painless methods of preventing cavities in the back teeth. The sealants will offer protection against cavities.
Do Dental Sealants Hurt?
No drilling or scraping is required during the dental sealants application process. This makes it a painless procedure. There is no need for numbing medication.
How Long Does it Take for Dental Sealants to Dry?
The dental sealants will take approximately one minute to dry in the presence of a curing light. Before being cured, the resin will still be in liquid form. This will ensure that dentists effectively apply the sealants.
How Long Do They Last?
Dental sealants will offer effective protection to the teeth for up to 10 years. However, the dentist will always check the teeth for any chipping or wear.
How to Care for Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a supplement and not a substitute for dental care or good oral hygiene. You still have to brush, floss, and do routine dental cleaning. Sealants only add an extra protection layer against tooth injury and decay.
Schedule Your Dental Sealants Appointment in Surprise, AZ Today
To learn more about dental sealants, contact Surprise Smiles by calling (602) 842-4864 today to schedule a consultation.
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