Dental Sealants Bedford
Stop Cavities and Decay Before They Start
Cavities are by far the most common oral health issue; they affect the vast majority of people at some point. The good news is that modern dentistry can greatly reduce the risk of decay. For example, our Bedford, TX, team might recommend that you or your child receive dental sealants during your next preventive visit. This is a simple and fast service that can stop cavities before they start! Get in touch with us today to request an appointment.
What Are Dental Sealants?
As you might guess from their name, dental sealants are meant to “seal” a tooth against cavities and decay. Essentially, a sealant is a thin protective barrier that we apply to the chewing surface of molars and premolars. Sealants stop food and bacteria from settling on the enamel, where they could otherwise contribute to the formation of plaque. Sealants can be made of a few different materials, but often, their composition is similar to dental fillings. They can be clear or tooth-colored.
Once they are placed on teeth, sealants are virtually unnoticeable, and they can offer several years of reliable cavity prevention.
How Are Dental Sealants Placed?
The dental sealant process is easy! Here is an overview of the steps involved:
- To begin, we thoroughly clean the tooth to ensure it is free of any debris or plaque. Following this, the tooth is dried, and cotton rolls or a rubber dam are positioned to maintain a dry environment throughout the sealant application process.
- A gentle acidic solution is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth. This slightly roughens the enamel, which enables the sealant to adhere more securely.
- After the etching gel has been used, we thoroughly rinse it away. Next, we apply the dental sealant either by using a small brush to paint it onto the surface or by placing it precisely with a syringe.
- To complete the process, we direct a specialized curing light at the sealant. This light hardens the material in a matter of seconds, making it strong and durable for long-lasting protection against cavities.
- Finally, we check to make sure the sealant will not interfere with your bite. If it is a bit too high, we can adjust it.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
We commonly recommend sealants for children and teenagers when they begin to develop their permanent premolars and molars. Since younger patients often have not yet perfected their brushing and flossing techniques, sealants serve as an effective way to protect the chewing surfaces of their back teeth.
It is important to note that dental sealants are not just for kids — they can also offer significant benefits for adults. If you have deep fissures or grooves in your teeth that are difficult to reach with regular brushing, you might consider getting sealants to help keep those areas free from decay. Sealants are especially useful for adults who know they are at a higher risk for cavities, whether due to their dental history or other factors.
Additionally, individuals with mobility challenges or special needs who may find it hard to maintain proper oral hygiene can benefit greatly from sealants. They provide an added layer of protection against cavities and help maintain oral health even when thorough brushing is challenging.