Dental Sealants

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The chewing surfaces of our back teeth are rough and contain slight indentations called pits, grooves and fissures. These often become a breeding ground for bacteria and food particles leading to tooth decay. A dental sealant is a resin coating that is applied to the back teeth to fill in the rough spots, creating a smoother surface which is more resistant to decay-causing substances. When combined with a proper oral care regimen, sealants are a highly effective way of addressing and hopefully preventing tooth decay, especially in children.

The application of dental sealants is a simple and painless procedure which begins by cleaning the tooth surface. The tooth is then dried and an etching gel is applied to further prepare the tooth so that the sealant can bond properly. The sealant is then applied to the tooth in a thin layer to cover the pits and fissures and dried using a special dental curing light. Once the sealant has cured, we will ensure that the surface has been sealed properly and will evaluate your bite. You can immediately resume your normal eating, drinking and chewing functions after the application of a dental sealant. However, hard, sticky, chewy foods such as taffy and hard candy should be avoided to prevent damage to the sealant.

If properly cared for, sealants are expected to last and protect your teeth for many years. It is recommended that you continue your regular dental visits where the condition of the sealants can be monitored for chipping or wear.

Maintaining regular oral hygiene with daily brushing, flossing and bi-annual dental cleanings is also critical in maintaining optimal oral health and to help prevent the occurrence of cavities and other dental problems.

Protect your teeth or child's teeth with dental sealants. Call us at (865) 483-2356 to schedule your next appointment.