Painted over the depressions and grooves of the back teeth, dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that act as a shield from bacteria. They are most commonly used for children to help prevent cavities, but sealants can be beneficial for adults as well.
The chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars are designed in a way that makes them especially susceptible to bacteria and decay. While normal brushing and flossing can usually effectively clean your other teeth, the grooves and fissures in the back teeth can sometimes trap food and bacteria. Dental sealants work as a coating to prevent this trapping and to minimize the molars’ and premolars’ susceptibility to decay. The smooth surface they create also makes these areas easier to clean.
The process of placing a dental sealant begins with cleaning and removing any bacteria or decay. This will ensure that no bacteria gets trapped underneath when the sealant is applied. After our dentist allows the back teeth to dry, an etching gel will be used to roughen the surfaces of the tooth. The helps the sealant bond to the enamel. The coating will then be applied and dried with a special light. Once the process is finished, you can resume your normal diet and routine.
Applying a dental sealant only takes one visit. Don’t leave your back teeth in harm’s way. If you think you may need a dental sealant, contact our friendly, professional dental team in Schertz at (210) 664-0544 to schedule an appointment.
