Keep Back Teeth Safe From Decay
At Watford Dental in Watford, ON, dental sealants provide a simple yet effective way to protect your teeth from cavities. Sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, particularly molars and premolars, which often have deep grooves that are difficult to clean and prone to decay.
By covering these grooves, sealants create a smoother surface that makes brushing easier and helps keep out food particles and bacteria. While sealants are durable and long-lasting, regular dental checkups are recommended to ensure they remain intact and continue providing optimal protection for your smile.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
At Watford Dental in Watford, ON, dental sealants provide extra protection for teeth, especially in areas prone to cavities. They are a simple and effective preventive measure for patients of all ages.
Kids and Teens
Sealants are most effective when applied as soon as the first permanent molars come in, usually around age 6. They help protect teeth throughout the cavity-prone years up to age 16, keeping young smiles healthy.
Adults
Even adults can benefit from sealants. If you have deep grooves in your teeth that haven’t developed cavities yet, sealants can help prevent future decay and maintain strong teeth.
Young Children
In some cases, sealants may be recommended for baby teeth if a child has deep grooves and is at high risk for cavities. This helps protect their early teeth and sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.
How Dental Sealants Protect Your Teeth
At Watford Dental in Watford, ON, applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and highly effective. The process only takes a few minutes per tooth and involves the following steps:
- The tooth is thoroughly cleaned and dried.
- Cotton or a small barrier is placed to keep the tooth dry.
- A special solution is applied to lightly roughen the tooth surface, helping the sealant adhere better.
- The tooth is rinsed and dried again.
- The sealant is painted onto the tooth surface.
- The sealant hardens either on its own or with the help of a special curing light.