Protect Your Smile with Dental Sealants
A radiant smile is one of your greatest assets, and maintaining it starts with excellent oral hygiene. At Corner Stone Dental, we understand the importance of preventive care. That’s why our Swansea, IL dentist, Dr. Randall E. Wilson offers dental sealants as a highly effective way to safeguard your teeth from cavities.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of resin that are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These back teeth have deep grooves and crevices that can be challenging to clean thoroughly, making them susceptible to decay. Sealants act as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling into these hard-to-reach areas.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants provide an extra layer of protection, reducing the risk of cavities by up to 80%.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to the cost of treating a cavity, receiving a dental sealant is an affordable preventive measure.
- Painless and Non-Invasive: The application of sealants is a painless process that requires no drilling or removal of tooth structure.
- Long-Lasting: With proper care, sealants can last for several years, effectively shielding your teeth during their most vulnerable years.
Candidacy for Dental Sealants
The ideal candidates for dental sealants include:
- Children and teenagers with newly erupted permanent molars and premolars.
- Adults without existing cavities or fillings in their molars.
- Individuals looking for an additional layer of cavity protection.
How the Procedure Works
Cleaning
The first step involves a thorough cleaning of the tooth’s surface. Our skilled dental hygienist uses specialized tools to remove any plaque, tartar, and debris. This ensures that the tooth is completely free from any substances that could interfere with the sealant’s adherence.
Drying and Isolation
Once the tooth is clean, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s completely dry. This is achieved by isolating the tooth from saliva and other moisture sources using a dental dam or cotton rolls. This drying process is essential for the sealant to bond effectively with the tooth’s surface.
Application of Sealant
With the tooth thoroughly cleaned and isolated, the liquid sealant is carefully applied. Your Swansea dentist paints the sealant onto the tooth’s chewing surface. This resin-based material is specifically designed to flow into the deep grooves and fissures, creating a protective barrier.
Hardening with Special Light
To solidify the sealant, a special curing light is used. This light triggers a chemical reaction in the sealant material, causing it to harden and bond securely with the tooth’s surface. This process only takes a few seconds, ensuring a quick and comfortable experience for the patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care. They provide a durable barrier against decay-causing factors. During your routine dental check-ups, we will monitor the condition of your sealants. If any signs of wear or damage are detected, we’ll promptly address them. In some cases, a reapplication may be recommended to ensure continuous protection.
No, you’ll only need to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing, flossing, and attending regular check-ups. Sealants seamlessly integrate with your natural teeth. There are no special maintenance requirements. Continue with your daily oral care practices, including thorough brushing, regular flossing, and attending your scheduled dental check-ups. This will help ensure that your sealants continue to provide optimal protection.
No, sealants are made from safe, resin-based materials that are approved for dental use.The materials used in dental sealants are thoroughly tested and approved for dental applications. They are composed of resin-based compounds that do not contain harmful chemicals. This means you can confidently rely on sealants as a safe and effective preventive measure for your oral health.
In most cases, sealants are best applied to healthy, cavity-free teeth. While sealants are highly effective at preventing cavities, they are not typically applied to teeth with existing dental fillings or extensive dental work. Our experienced dentists will assess your specific situation and provide personalized recommendations for maintaining your oral health.
Embrace a Brighter, Healthier Smile with Dental Sealants at Corner Stone Dental!
At Corner Stone Dental, we believe in proactive dental care, and dental sealants are a prime example of our commitment to your oral health. By taking this simple step, you’re investing in a brighter, healthier smile for years to come. If you would like to schedule a consultation for sealants, don’t hesitate to contact our Swansea, IL dental office by giving us a call at (618) 236 – 0501. Your smile is our priority!