Sealants at True Dental Care in Jersey City NJ

As a dental patient, you may have heard about sealants and their benefits. But what are they exactly? And how can they help protect your teeth? In this article, we'll explore the importance of sealants for your dental health.

What Are Sealants?

Sealants are thin coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have grooves and fissures that can trap food particles and bacteria, making them more susceptible to decay. By sealing these grooves, sealants create a barrier between the tooth surface and harmful substances that result in bacteria build-up and decay.

Sealant material is usually made of resin or glass ionomer cement. It's applied in liquid form and then hardened with a special light. The process is quick, painless, and non-invasive.

Who Can Benefit from Sealants?

Sealants are most commonly used on children's permanent molars as soon as they come in (around age 6-7) because these teeth are more prone to cavities due to their deep grooves. However, adults can also benefit from sealant treatment if they have deep grooves or pits on their molars that haven't been previously filled.

People who have a history of cavities or poor oral hygiene habits may also benefit from sealant treatment as an added layer of protection against decay.

How Do Sealants Help Prevent Cavities?

Cavities occur when bacteria in plaque produce acid that erodes tooth enamel over time. When food particles get trapped in the deep grooves of molars, it provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.

By sealing these grooves with a protective coating, food particles are prevented from adhering to the chewing surfaces, thus making it easier to clean these areas during regular brushing and flossing routines. This reduces the risk of cavity formation by up to 80%.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

Sealant treatment is not permanent but can last up to 10 years with proper care. During regular dental checkups, your dentist will check the condition of your sealant material and reapply it if necessary.

To ensure maximum longevity for your sealant treatment:

- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy

- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste

- Floss regularly

- Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental sealants play an important role in preventing cavities by protecting vulnerable areas on the back teeth where decay often occurs due to deep crevices where bacteria love hiding out! These easy-to-use treatments provide long-lasting protection against cavities without any invasive procedures, thus making them perfect for children and adults alike! So why not talk with our team at True Dental Care today about getting this simple yet effective preventative measure done? Call us today to make an appointment!