How Your Dentist Can Protect Smiles with Dental Sealants
Like knights wear armor to protect them from injury, your dentist places dental sealants onto your teeth to protect them from decay. A tooth sealant is actually a thin layer of plastic that is applied to the parts of your back teeth that you use for chewing. These teeth usually have many small grooves that your toothbrush can’t reach, and the plaque that accumulates on them can eventually cause cavities. Dental sealants act as protective barriers to keep food, plaque, and bacteria away from your tooth enamel. Sealants are often placed on adult molars as soon as they erupt. Your dentist may also seal teeth that appear to be forming a cavity.
How Dental Sealants Are Applied
Sealing your teeth doesn’t hurt, and it doesn’t take long to do. Here are the basic steps.
- The dentist will use a tool called an explorer to look for grooves in your back teeth.
- A special gel or liquid will be applied to your teeth to help make the surface rough so the sealant can bond with it.
- Your teeth will be rinsed and dried.
- A sealant will be applied with a brush to protect and seal teeth.
- Depending on what type of sealant is used, as special light may be applied to help harden it.
What to Expect After a Tooth Sealant Treatment
As soon as your teeth are sealed, you are free to do whatever you like, including eating and drinking. You may feel like you are biting onto something at first, but this odd feeling will go away quickly. After a few days, you won’t even know the sealants are on your teeth. A tooth sealant doesn’t last forever, but it can effectively seal teeth for up to ten years. Each time you go for a dental exam, your dentist will check to see how the sealants are doing. If one is chipped or damaged, it can easily be replaced. Be sure to take care of your teeth and gums in other ways for the best oral health. Brush and floss every day, and try to eat a healthy diet.
To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Michigan, call Gentle Dental of Michigan today at or make an appointment.
Gentle Dental of Michigan offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Michigan. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Michigan, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Gentle Dental of Michigan, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Gentle Dental of Michigan.
