Would it not be lovely if you could prevent cavities easily rather than suffering from the pain? Not to mention the ordeal of visiting your dentist multiple times for fillings or root canal therapy. Plus, even more so when it comes to dealing with dental fears or worried children. Dental sealants in Millwoods are suggested to parents as they can help prevent cavity formation in children. If you are unfamiliar with dental sealants or would simply like to learn more about them, continue reading.
Fact 1: Sometimes, no matter how hard you or your child brush their teeth, it can be impossible for the bristles of a toothbrush to clean the tiny grooves and pits. The buildup of bacteria in these areas places your teeth at risk for the danger of decay. Sealants “seal out” food and plaque, thereby reducing the risk of decay.
Fact 2: When your child visits their dental clinic in Millwoods for dental sealants, it will protect their teeth throughout the most cavity-prone years of their life. If properly maintained, sealants can last for many years. To increase their longevity, you should practice good oral hygiene and avoid biting on hard objects. Habits like chewing on your nails, ice or biting on pencils can damage the sealant and your teeth. During a routine dental visit, your dentist in Millwoods will check the sealant and make recommendations for reapplication or repair when it is needed.
Fact 3: Applying sealants is a brief and comfortable process. The sealants can be applied in only one visit and drilling, trimming of the teeth and tooth structure removal is not required. Your child’s teeth can be protected in no time!
Fact 4: For most children, tooth decay is commonly found in the grooves and pits of their teeth. These areas are located on the grinding or chewing surfaces of the molars (back teeth). Dental sealants near you keep bacteria and food particles from becoming lodged in these areas, thereby protecting your child’s teeth.
Fact 5: Sealants are made from clear or shaded plastic. They are applied to children’s teeth to help prevent them from cavities. When your child visits their dental office in Millwoods, the process for applying the sealants will depend on the type of sealant being used. Some sealant material may harden on its own through a chemical process. Other sealant types may require a special light in order to harden.
Fact 6: Before the tooth is sealed, it must be cleaned first. Then, it is conditioned with an acid solution and dried. Next, the sealant is painted onto the pits and grooves of the tooth. Lastly, it is left to harden naturally or with a special light.
Fact 7: Your saliva is essential, as it helps to wash away food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Also, if your saliva production decreases, it can cause unwanted side effects such as bad breath and dry mouth. Saliva is a natural cleaner or in other words, “natures toothbrush,” but it is not able to wash out the grooves and fissures. The teeth that are at the highest risk for decay and in need of sealants are the permanent molars.
Fact 8: The permanent premolars and primary (baby) molars can also benefit from sealants. Any tooth that has grooves or pits will likely benefit from the protection offered by sealants.
Fact 9: Although it is less common, dental sealants can be used for adults who are at a higher risk for cavities. The sealants will be placed on teeth with deep pits and fissures that are free from fillings.
Fact 10: Sealants are a component of complete preventive dental care. Note, sealants will only protect the areas they are applied to. All patients should practice good oral hygiene, eat a balanced diet, and visit their dentist in Millwoods regularly.