Keeping your teeth cavity free get easier!
Dental Sealants
Cleaning every nook & cranny of your teeth comes with a lot of difficulty. Yet keeping your teeth clean is the only way of protecting your teeth against cavity & eventual tooth decay. An important way to protect your teeth against cavities is the use of dental sealants.
Simply put, a dental sealant is a thin, protective coating that can adhere to the chewing surface of the back teeth, the premolars & molars, which are more susceptible to cavities due to their natural pits and fissures. Bacteria can easily collect in these areas because they are more difficult to reach with a toothbrush.
Dental sealants can go a long way in preventing cavities as well as keep your teeth safe from decaying. In fact, research has shown that sealants can reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%. A report released by Centers for Disease Control also went on to show that school going children without sealants have three times more cavities than children who have sealants.
While sealants can benefit anyone at any age, however it works better if you get them earlier. In fact, it is better to cover the molars as soon as they keep them cavity free from the beginning. Besides patients with the following conditions will particularly benefit from sealants:
- Those having deep pits & fissures.
- With a history of tooth decay.
- Suffering from enamel defects.
- Those showing early signs of cavity.
- Those who suffer from excessive plaque.
Several types of dental sealants
The several types of dental sealants include:
- Glass Ionomer - This sealant is known to release fluoride & fight bacteria.
- Polyacid Modified Resin - While this also releases fluoride, the quantities are small.
- Composite Resins - This type of sealant is known for its strength & durability.
How do dental sealants work?
As a protective coating on your teeth, dental sealants keep leftover food out. In turn, this does not allow bacteria & acid to settle on your teeth. Your teeth are therefore protected from formation of cavities.
How are dental sealants placed?
It is an easy and painless process that involves the following steps:
- The surface of the tooth is cleaned by the dentist.
- The tooth is then washed with water & fully dried.
- To attach the dental sealant to the tooth, an acidic solution is placed on the tooth’s chewing surface for few seconds. This creates a rough surface.
- The tooth is dried and the liquid dental sealant is placed on the tooth. The liquid is next hardened by using a light
- Once the liquid has hardened it turns into a harsh coating enabling you to chew on the tooth.
Dental Sealants or Fillings?
If you are wondering whether you should do sealants or fillings, the answer lies in the fact that one offers preventative, proactive care & the other is used when damage has already been done, namely cavities have already been formed.
However, with respect to procedure, dental sealants are quick and easy to apply to prevent decay and cavities. Dental fillings are more compatible when it is required repairing minor fractures or decay in the teeth.
Dental sealants work well both in terms of preventive care and within your budget.
Why choose Dental Oasis Family Dentistry for dental sealants in Pleasanton?
Our experienced dentist offers you a hassle-free experience when it comes to dental sealants. Whether you are looking at sealants for yourself or your children, we have you covered. We are known for our professional as well as compassionate services, we are the go-to option when it comes to the highest quality dental care.
As a busy professional herself, Dr. Sharda Patel understands and treats every patient with their unique needs. High quality service, fast yet comprehensive service, flexible scheduling, and your personal comfort are her primary areas of focus! Long lasting patient relationships are the rewards of the Dental Oasis Family Dentistry.
Dental Sealant FAQs
1. What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are a treatment to prevent tooth decay. It is a thin, plastic based protective coating that can be applied to the chewing surface of the back teeth.
2. What do dental sealants look like?
They can be clear or slightly tinted. Typically, they are not seen when you smile or communicate.
3. Who should get sealants?
Given the likelihood of cavities & tooth decay, they are recommended for children &teenagers. Typically children should get sealants on their permanent teeth as soon as these teeth come in so that the teeth are protected in the cavity prone years. However adults can also benefit from sealants.
4. Is it possible to use dental sealants over cavities?
Yes, dental sealants can be put over areas that show early decay. It is best to use a clear sealant in such areas so that the dentist can keep an eye on the tooth.
5. Do dental sealants come with any side effects?
Other than the possibility of an allergy in some cases, sealants do not come with any side effects.
6. Are there any BPA in dental sealants?
There is a small amount of BPA in a dental sealant, but it is not large enough to cause any harm. You can also opt for BPA-free dental sealants to ensure that you or your child is not exposed to any potentially harmful substances.
7. What kind of aftercare do dental sealants need?
Excellent oral care & regular check ups are all the aftercare that you require. Dental sealants can be reapplied if necessary.
8. Does the process hurt?
No it is a painless process. It is easy to have a dental sealant fixed in one visit.
9. How long do dental sealants last?
Well, they are quite durable and last up to 9 years. It is important though to schedule regular check ups with the dentist.
10. Are there any changes in diet required after a dental sealant procedure?
There are no significant changes required, however you should avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy food. These can stick to the sealant & remove it from the teeth. Chewing on ice and other hard candies also needs to be avoided as they can break or chip your newly fitted sealant.
11. Can I brush my teeth after getting dental sealants?
Yes, you need to brush & floss as you normally do. In fact, brushing, flossing & seeing your dentist regularly are necessary components of long-term dental care even after the application of sealants.
12. When is the perfect time to get them?
There is not the best time to get sealants. The earlier you get them the better it is. In any case you should not wait till decay or tooth pain to set in before getting sealants.
13. Are dental sealants covered by dental plans?
Not every insurance plan covers them. It is best to check with your insurance provider.
14. How much do dental sealants cost?
It can cost between $30 to $70 per tooth, although some insurance or discount plans can reduce the cost. It is important to remember that the price of restoring just one decayed tooth can be far greater than the cost of having dental sealants applied.
15. How can I reach you for a Dental Sealant procedure?
You can fill out this form for scheduling an appointment or call us at (925)-846-4491 and our customer support team will immediately help to schedule your appointment.
Book your dental sealants appointment now!
Say goodbye to cavities before the situation worsens. When you visit our dental office, we will review all the available options with you and create a suitable dental sealants procedure plan for you. No matter the age and needs of the patient, we serve the best as per requirement. Call us at (925)-846-4491 or email us at office@dentaloasispleasanton.com or click on the following button to schedule an appointment with us.
We look forward to caring for your smile!
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