Dental Sealants

What are dental sealants?

A dental sealant is a resin coating that is applied directly to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth and can prevent harmful bacteria from settling into the grooves of your teeth. Pecan Park Dental performs sealant application procedures and can help you use sealants to shield your teeth from this bacteria. Dental sealants can be a powerful preventative measure when it comes to the health of your smile.

What are the benefits of dental sealants?

Dental sealants are an effective way to prevent tooth decay, especially if you experience frequent cavities or other issues related to the build-up of bacteria on your teeth. Every time you eat or drink anything, your teeth are exposed to bacteria and food particles that can get into the fissures and grooves of your teeth. From minor cavities to missing teeth, this harmful bacteria can cause a slew of dental problems if allowed to infiltrate the enamel of your teeth. Dental sealants form a barrier that prevents the bacteria from getting a foothold in your teeth.

What to expect when getting dental sealants?

At Pecan Park Dental, the process for applying a sealant is simple. Your hygienist will clean your teeth and inspect them for any issues, after which your Arlington dentist will apply a gel to the chewing surface of your teeth. This gel is then washed off and your teeth are dried. Finally, the sealant is painted on and allowed to sit for a few moments, so it can harden. The dental sealant is clear and the procedure itself is completely painless. The dental sealant application process does not require drilling of any kind. You can expect your sealant to last anywhere between 5 to 10 years on average.

Are dental sealants beneficial for both children and adults?

Patients will typically experience the most benefit from sealants once their permanent teeth have grown in. In the case of children, it is best if the sealant is applied just after the molars have begun to break through the gums to prevent early tooth decay. There is a misconception that dental sealants are primarily for children. The protection sealants offer against tooth decay benefits people of all ages, however, and becomes arguably more important as you get older.

Can dental sealants substitute other preventative care measures?

It’s important to note that dental sealants do not take the place of other preventative care measures. Regular teeth cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatments are still important for the health of your teeth and gums and should be scheduled regularly. Visit our Pecan Park Dental team in Arlington, TX, and find out what we can do for the longevity of your smile!