Preventive care is key to maintaining your oral health and keeping your smile bright. One of the most effective preventive measures our dentist and team offer is dental sealants. Sealants are particularly beneficial for both children and adults who are at higher risk of tooth decay.
Dental sealants are a simple yet powerful protection against cavities and decay. They consist of a thin, transparent or tooth-colored resin material applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth — primarily the molars and premolars. These teeth are most susceptible to decay due to their grooved surfaces where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate.
Applying sealants is a quick and completely painless procedure that can be completed in a single visit to our office. This process involves:
- Cleaning and drying the tooth to prepare it for the sealant.
- Applying an acidic gel to roughen the tooth surface, which ensures a strong bond.
- Rinsing and drying the tooth again before applying the sealant.
- Curing the sealant with a special light to harden the material.
Once in place, the sealant will last for several years to provide long-lasting protection. The sealant material works by covering the natural pits and grooves of the teeth, blocking out decay-causing bacteria and food particles. This prevents the buildup of plaque to avert decay. Sealants also make it easier to keep your teeth clean with regular brushing by creating a smoother surface over the tooth.
While sealants are particularly recommended for children and teenagers — ideally soon after their permanent molars and premolars erupt — they can also be exceptionally beneficial for adults, especially those:
- With no fillings or decay in their molars.
- Who have deep grooves and depressions in their teeth.
- Who are prone to cavities and want extra protection.
Please also keep in mind that while dental sealants offer long-term protection for your teeth, they are not a substitute for regular brushing and flossing. Rather, they are an excellent complement to your regular oral hygiene routine.
Please contact us at 270-753-1572 to schedule an appointment with Dr. James Wells and learn more about how dental sealants in Murray, Kentucky, can protect your smile and oral health.