Dental sealants are used to prevent tooth decay or reverse it in its earliest stages. After a teeth cleaning has removed all the plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the surface of your teeth, a dental sealant is then brushed over the surface of the tooth. In most cases, sealants are applied to the chewing surface of molars, since this highly texturized area is a common location for tooth decay. By using an ultra-thin layer of composite resin, dental sealants are able to effectively seal the tooth, protecting the natural tooth surface from decay-causing bacteria.
Did You Know?
Dental sealants are a highly effective preventative dental treatment. During the first two years after application, sealants can reduce the occurence of cavities by
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I benefit from dental sealants?
You may benefit from dental sealants if you are prone to tooth decay and are looking for another preventative measure. Dental sealants are also ideal for children or people who struggle with practicing proper oral hygiene. However, it is important to note that dental sealants are not a replacement for brushing and flossing. To find out if dental sealants are right for you, schedule a consultation with Maxtown Family Dental today.
What can I expect when having a dental sealant placed at Maxtown Family Dental?
Dental sealants are a non-invasive preventative treatment. First, you will need to have your teeth professionally cleaned by our dental hygienist. This removes all the bacterial buildup on the surface of your teeth to ensure that no bacteria is trapped under the sealant. Once your teeth have been cleaned, then a thin layer of composite resin will be brushed onto the chewing surface of your molars. A special curing light will then be used to harden the composite resin over the tooth, effectively sealing the tooth.
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can remain safely on your teeth for up to nine years. However, they are only the most effective in the first 2-4 years, then their effectiveness drops dramatically. For this reason, it is recommended to have your sealants removed and reapplied about every 2-4 years. In some cases, they may also need to be replaced sooner if they become damaged, since this can cause bacteria to become trapped underneath.
Do dental sealants have BPA?
One concern many people have is about the use of BPA in the fabrication process of dental sealants. While the sealants themselves do not contain BPA, it is a by-product of their production process. However, the amount of BPA produced is so small that the American Dental Association still considers dental sealants to be safe. In fact, you are exposed to more BPA from breathing air than you are from getting a dental sealant.
