Dental Sealants Can Help Prevent Cavities

Practicing preventative care is perhaps the most important component of keeping your mouth healthy. Brushing your teeth and flossing twice a day goes a long way to preventing cavities and gum disease. When you take good care of your teeth, it lessens the likelihood of more severe issues developing in the future. Similarly, going to the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings allows professionals to examine your smile to make sure nothing serious is developing. Another tool of preventative care is dental sealants. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, dentist discusses what sealants can do for your smile and also describes the importance of preventative care, overall. 

What Are They And What Do They Do?

Sealants are thin films that go over your molars. They are made from either plastic or other dental materials, and they add an additional layer of protection to your teeth. Once one has been applied, they serve as a barrier between your teeth and food particles. This, in turn, prevents bacteria from settling into your teeth, which causes decay. According to the ADA, they can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80%. Though anyone can receive sealants, they are typically given to children as their second molars start to come in.  

How Are They Applied?

Their application is non-intrusive and painless. First, your dentist cleans your teeth thoroughly. Next, they apply an acidic gel, which alters the surface of your teeth. This helps the sealant stick to your teeth more effectively. From there, your oral health care professional removes the acid and applies the sealant. Finally, they harden it with a blue light. Once there, they provide protection for several years. As mentioned, it is recommended to start on children as their second molars come in. As this prevents tooth decay, you can save headaches and money from having a lower chance of cavities developing. 

Preventative Care Is Essential

The above-described coating on your teeth ultimately prevents larger issues from developing. This is the main point of preventative care in general. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing similarly helps plaque from building up and calcifying, minimizing the chances for cavities and gingivitis. Likewise, regularly scheduled cleanings allow a professional to use specialized tools to remove food particles and bacteria that brushing simply can’t reach. If you practice good habits and utilize the tools discussed in this blog, you will set yourself up for long-term success.

Contact Us To Learn More About Dental Sealants

If you have more questions about this helpful tool or about preventative care in general, do not hesitate to reach out. Set up an appointment and call  Gentle Smiles Family Dentistry in Dallas, TX at 972-329-7645 today. We look forward to hearing from you soon.