Dental Sealants
What Are Dental Sealants?
Applying dental sealants is a simple procedure during which an acrylic coating is painted onto the surface of the tooth to prevent decay where you chew the most frequently.
Dental sealants help to “seal” the deeper grooves where plaque and bacteria are more susceptible to building up. These places are often too hard to reach by just brushing and flossing.
What Happens in a Dental Sealant Procedure?
Dental sealant applications are very easy, painless, and quick. The tooth or teeth that are going to be sealed are first prepped by a thorough cleaning. Each tooth is then dried and surrounded with cotton or another material to keep it dry and clean. Next, a solution is put on the teeth to roughen up the surface, making it easier to bond the sealant to the tooth or teeth. After this occurs, the tooth or teeth are rinsed and dried. Lastly, the sealant is painted onto the tooth or teeth and is cured with UV light.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Sealants are made to hold up against the force of chewing and can last several years before reapplication is needed.