Seal Up the Story on Dental Sealants

Do you know the truth about tooth decay? It’s time to face the facts about this danger and learn how a teeth sealant can provide a lifetime of protection.

The Powerful Protection of Dental Sealants

In the history of dental health, two of the biggest breakthroughs have been fluoride and dental sealants. While fluoride is the first step in guarding teeth from the dangers of decay, a teeth sealant adds to the benefits of fluoride to provide total protection. How does this dental wonder work? The treatment is used to seal teeth with a plastic coating to provide a protective barrier that keeps decay at bay.

The Age for Application

Children are prime targets for tooth decay because the chewing surfaces of their teeth tend to have deep grooves where food particles and bacteria can collect and cause cavities. The procedure is ideally performed on newly erupted teeth, both baby teeth to protect young children, and permanent ones to help older kids and teens. But dental sealants can be applied at any age and should be re-applied over the years as they wear away with time. Regular applications are required to ensure long-term protection.

The Steps to Seal Teeth

A teeth sealant is quick and easy to apply and the treatment is totally painless. And dental insurance often covers the cost of dental sealants, yet this depends on your level of insurance. Ask your dentist if sealants for are right you and about any out-of-pocket costs. The procedure to seal teeth follows these simple steps:

• The dentist will clean the teeth and dry them thoroughly.
• An acid solution will be applied to help the sealant adhere to the tooth’s surface.
• A thin layer of the teeth sealant will be brushed into the tooth. This coating will be either white or clear to allow it to blend easily into the tooth’s natural color.
• The sealant will harden in a matter of moments, often through the use of a high-intensity curing light.
• The sealant will be permanent for several years, but will need to be checked at regular dental visits to tell when it’s time to reapply.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Peoria, call Maple Shade Dental Group today or make an appointment.