Dental Sealant – Gainesville, FL
Protecting Your Teeth from Cavities
Your teeth do a lot for you. They grind your food, help you articulate sounds and words, and help your smile look attractive. But they are almost constantly surrounded bacteria, some of which can cause cavities. The back teeth, which have rougher, deeper, more grooved surfaces, are especially vulnerable to tooth decay. The good news is that we can help! in addition to healthy oral habits, like brushing and flossing and visiting Dr. Nossa twice a year, there is a way to protect your teeth from attacking bacteria—dental sealants.
What are dental sealants?
A dental sealant is a clear layer of plastic that is coated on the chewing surfaces of your premolars and molars. It effectively prevents plaque, bacteria, and food particles from settling in these cavity-prone areas and having access to the tooth’s enamel. In fact, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that dental sealants can help prevent 80 percent of cavities!
What is the process of getting dental sealants?
Once you and Dr. Nossa have decided on dental sealants, the process goes as follows:
- Your teeth will be cleaned and polished.
- The tooth that will be treated will be isolated, rinsed with water, and thoroughly dried.
- Then we will apply an acidic solution to slightly roughen up the surface and make the dental sealant adhere easier. Your tooth will be rinsed and dried again.
- We will coat the tooth with a plastic-based substance and use a curing light to help it harden more quickly.
It’s that simple, fast, and painless!
Who can get dental sealants?
Anyone who has their premolars or molars can get dental sealants, but they are particularly helpful for young children, who are still learning how to care for their teeth. As soon as each of these teeth grows in, it is a good idea to have your child treated with dental sealants. Make sure you ask Dr. Nossa about this effective treatment option at your next appointment!
How long do dental sealants last?
Dental sealants can last up to around 10 years with proper care, and it is possible to place a new dental sealant on your tooth after this time period. Keep in mind that dental sealants do not replace healthy oral habits, and you should continue to maintain them to ensure that your teeth are protected from decay.
At our Gainesville office, we are committed to helping you keep your smile happy and healthy. That’s why we encourage you to take preventive measures, like dental sealants, so that you and your child can enjoy good oral health in the long term. We look forward to discussing this with you!. Schedule an appointment with us today to get started!