Dental Sealants in Rice Military

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, primarily the molars and premolars. These teeth have grooves and pits that are vulnerable to plaque accumulation and cavities. The sealant acts as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling into these crevices. It's a simple, painless procedure that can be completed in a single dental visit. Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers, as their newly erupted permanent teeth are most susceptible to cavities. However, adults can also benefit from sealants, particularly if they have deep grooves in their teeth that haven't been filled or have no decay.

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Unlike your natural teeth, dental implants can't get cavities.

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Dental sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%.

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The Dental Sealants Treatment Process

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Cleaning the Teeth

The first step in the dental sealant process is a thorough cleaning of the teeth that will receive the sealants. This is crucial because it ensures that no plaque or food particles are trapped under the sealant, which could lead to decay. The dentist or dental hygienist will use a rotating brush and a gritty toothpaste to clean the surface of the teeth. Once cleaned, the teeth are rinsed and dried. This step lays the foundation for a strong bond between the tooth and the sealant, ensuring its effectiveness and longevity.

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Preparing the Tooth Surface

After cleaning, the next step is to prepare the tooth surface to help the sealant adhere properly. The dentist will apply a special acidic solution, known as an etching gel, to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This gel lightly roughens the surface, creating a texture that allows the sealant to bond effectively. The etching process is quick and painless, usually taking only a few seconds. Once the etching is complete, the teeth are rinsed thoroughly to remove any remaining gel and then dried again to ensure a moisture-free surface for the sealant application.

Applying the Sealant

With the teeth prepared, the dentist will apply the dental sealant. The sealant is a liquid plastic material that flows into the grooves and pits of the teeth, forming a protective shield. The dentist carefully paints the sealant onto each tooth, ensuring complete coverage of the chewing surfaces. Once applied, the sealant is hardened using a special curing light. This process takes only a few seconds and allows the sealant to bond securely to the tooth. Once hardened, the sealant becomes a durable plastic barrier that can protect the tooth from decay for several years.

The Benefits Of Dental Sealants

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Cavity Prevention

Dental sealants are highly effective in preventing cavities, particularly in children and teenagers. By covering the grooves and pits of the back teeth, sealants block out food particles and bacteria that could lead to decay. This preventive measure can significantly reduce the need for fillings and other dental treatments in the future, saving both time and money.

Quick and Painless Application

When you lose a tooth, the remaining teeth can shift out of position, leading to a range of issues, including a bad bite and gum disease. A dental bridge helps maintain the alignment of your teeth by filling the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth.

Long-lasting Protection

Dental sealants provide long-lasting protection against cavities. With proper care, sealants can last up to 10 years before needing reapplication. During regular dental check-ups, the dentist will monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary. This long-term protection makes sealants a wise investment in maintaining oral health, particularly for children and teenagers with newly erupted permanent teeth.

Did You Know?

Sealants can be clear, white, or slightly tinted to match your natural tooth color.

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Did you know…

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Unlike dentures which require replacements, dental implants can potentially last a lifetime.

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Did you know…

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Dental implants are made of titanium, which is one of the strongest and most durable metals.

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