Dental sealants are a quick, easy and inexpensive way to prevent cavities. Sealants are made from plastic material that is placed on the surfaces of teeth. They can be particularly useful on the back teeth, where toothbrushes aren’t able to properly clean.
Cavities
Cavities form when sugar combines with the bacteria naturally present in the mouth. This combination forms acid which can demineralize the outermost layer of the teeth. Repeated attacks can cause cavities to form. When left untreated, cavities increase in size and depth and cause a number of problems.
Dental Sealants for Children and Adults in Charlottesville, VA
Children often have a difficult time brushing areas in the back of the mouth. As a result, these areas tend to be more prone to cavities and decay. Sealants can help prevent cavities in children. Adults that are more susceptible to cavities because of genetics or other reasons might also benefit from dental sealants.
Teeth with deep pits and fissures can be extremely difficult to clean because toothbrush bristles are not able to reach the base of these grooves. Dental sealants fill in and smooth out the grooves and fissures in the teeth where food particles and cavity-causing bacteria tend to hide. This significantly reduces the risk of cavities in these areas.
Each dental sealant takes only minutes to place. They require absolutely no drilling or anesthetic and very little maintenance. Regular brushing, flossing and dental visits are important. It’s also a good idea to minimize the consumption of acid containing foods and beverages and to avoid chewing ice or other hard objects.
Dental Sealant Maintenance
Dental sealants can protect teeth for up to ten years. However, your dentist will need to inspect them regularly for cracks and wear, as decay can get under worn down sealants. As long as dental sealants remain completely bonded, they are extremely efficient at preventing cavities.
Preventative treatments such as dental sealants can help you avoid future dental problems. Our experienced dental team can help you determine if dental sealants are right for you.