Protect Your Smile for Optimal Oral Health
At Smile Brighter, our experienced Willoughby Hills, OH dentist, Dr. Phillip Wallace prioritizes the longevity and well-being of your teeth. Our commitment to optimal oral health is exemplified through our advanced dental care services, including the application of dental sealants. As a leading dental practice, we understand the importance of preventive measures in maintaining a healthy and radiant smile.
If you’re interested in protecting your smile against cavities and decay, contact Smile Brighter at (440) 210-0999.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of back teeth. They act as a barrier to keep out food particles and germs that cause cavities.
The chewing surfaces of back teeth have lots of pits and grooves that are difficult to keep clean. Food and bacteria can get stuck in them, putting teeth at higher risk for tooth decay. Sealants fill these pits and grooves to create a smooth, protected surface.
The Importance of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants play a vital role in preventive oral care. Getting sealants can:
- Reduce Decay Risk: Dental sealants benefit patients by shielding the chewing surfaces most prone to tooth decay. This significantly cuts the chance of cavities developing.
- Save Time and Money: It’s much cheaper and easier to get sealants than extensive dental work later. Preventing problems is always better than treating them after the fact.
- Protect Teeth Through Childhood: Sealants last several years and are most effective when applied soon after back teeth erupt. These barriers shield teeth through the cavity-prone ages of six to 14.
- Supplement Good Hygiene: No matter how well patients brush and floss, sealants add an extra layer of defense against tooth decay.
Who Can Benefit From Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are safe and effective for most people. Candidates include:
- Children and Teens: Baby teeth and newly erupted permanent teeth are still maturing and are most vulnerable to decay. Sealants prevent problems from starting early.
- Adults With Deep Grooves: Some molars naturally have deep pits and grooves that collect plaque. Sealants help prevent cavities and tooth decay, even in mature teeth.
- Dry Mouth Patients: Reduced saliva raises cavity risk. Sealants boost protection for those with dry mouth.
- Braces Wearers: Brackets create more plaque traps. Sealants limit this added risk by protecting natural tooth enamel.
- Cavity-Prone Patients: Frequent decay runs in some families. Sealants provide an extra preventive barrier.
Dental Sealant Application Process
Thorough Cleaning
Applying dental sealants always starts with a thorough professional cleaning. Dr. Wallace uses specialized dental instruments to carefully remove any built-up plaque, tartar, or debris from the tooth surfaces receiving sealants. Proper cleaning creates a smooth, clean surface for the sealants to adhere to.
Etching the Tooth
After thoroughly cleaning the tooth surface, your Willoughby Hills dentist applies an etching solution. This gel contains mild phosphoric acid, similar to what’s in tooth whitening treatments. The acid microscopically textures the enamel surface to prepare the tooth for sealant bonding.
Applying the Sealant
With the tooth surface prepped, Dr. Wallace will apply the dental sealant material. He uses a small applicator brush to paint the liquid resin sealant onto the tooth, ensuring it flows smoothly and evenly into every pit and groove on the chewing surface.
Dr. Wallace may apply multiple thin layers to build the protective coating to the proper thickness. His careful application ensures the sealant shields the entire chewing surface without leaving any weak points.
Curing the Sealant
Once applied, Dr. Wallace will use a handheld curing light to harden and set the dental sealant material. This light thoroughly hardens the sealant into a durable plastic coating.
The curing light is an essential final step to ensure the sealant provides long-lasting protection. You’ll leave our office with a newly protected tooth and renewed confidence in your oral health.
Caring For Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are durable but require some care to get the most longevity from them. Your Willoughby Hills suggests these sealant care tips:
- Brush Twice and Floss Once Daily: Meticulous brushing and flossing prevent sealant breakdown and cavities.
- Avoid Hard, Sticky Foods: Candies, ice, and chewy gummies can pop sealants off if bitten into too vigorously. Take care when eating these treats.
- Visit Smile Brighter Regularly: Dr. Wallace checks sealants at visits and can reapply them if needed. Catching any issues early keeps sealants working their best.
- Use a Night Guard if Grinding Teeth: Clenching and grinding wear down sealants faster. A custom night guard protects them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sealants are extremely safe with no short or long-term side effects. Some patients report mild sensitivity for a day or two after application as the sealant initially hardens. This soon resolves on its own.
With good oral care, sealants typically last around five years before needing reapplication. Some may last up to 10 years. Your dentist will check them at your regular visits to ensure they are still intact.
You may be able to feel a rough spot with your tongue, but sealants often fracture in hard-to-see places. See your dentist every six months to examine sealants and reseal any problem areas before decay sets in.
The ideal timing is as soon as permanent molars fully erupt, around age six or seven. Sealants work best when applied right after teeth emerge before extensive tooth decay can start.
Embark On Your Journey to a Brighter, Healthier Smile!
Smile Brighter invites you to take the next step towards optimal oral care. Our advanced dental sealants act as a crucial line of defense against cavities, ensuring lasting strength and beauty for your teeth. Experience the transformative benefits of our personalized care and cutting-edge treatments.
Schedule your appointment today at Smile Brighter in Willoughby Hills, OH, by giving us a call at (440) 210-0999 and let our skilled team guide you towards a future of radiant oral health