At Open Door Dental, serving Central Point, Oregon, and surrounding areas, we provide comprehensive care to maintain your family’s oral health. One of the preventive treatments we offer is dental sealants, a simple yet effective way to protect teeth from decay.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas are particularly vulnerable to cavities due to their grooved surfaces that can trap food particles and bacteria. The application of sealants can significantly reduce the risk of decay by acting as a barrier against these harmful elements.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants offer numerous advantages, especially for children and teenagers who may struggle with maintaining optimal oral hygiene. These benefits include:
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants protect enamel from acids and plaque.
- Long-lasting Protection: They can last several years with proper care.
- Painless Application: The procedure is quick and non-invasive.
- Cost-effective Solution: Reduces future dental treatment costs by preventing decay.
The Process of Applying Dental Sealants
The process of applying dental sealants is straightforward and typically completed in one visit. Here’s how it works:
- Cleaning: The dentist will thoroughly clean and dry the teeth.
- Preparation: An acidic gel is applied to roughen the tooth surface for better adhesion.
- Application: The sealant material is painted onto the tooth enamel.
- Curing: A special light hardens the sealant quickly.
Your Dental Sealant Experience
You might wonder what to expect before and after getting dental sealants from our practice in Central Point. Before the procedure, ensure your child brushes their teeth thoroughly. Post-application, they can resume normal activities immediately as there are no restrictions or recovery time required. Regular check-ups will ensure that the sealants remain intact and effective over time.
FAQs About Dental Sealants
How long do dental sealants last?
A properly applied dental sealant can last up to 10 years but requires regular checks during routine dental visits at Open Door Dental.
Are there any risks associated with dental sealants?
The procedure is safe with minimal risks. Some people may experience temporary sensitivity but it’s uncommon.
Who should get dental sealants?
Dentists like Dr. Ryan Bailey, DDS, often recommend them for children once their permanent molars come in; however, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit.
Can adults get dental sealants?
Yes, while commonly used for children, adults without fillings or decay on molar surfaces can also benefit from this preventive measure.
Do I still need to brush my teeth if I have sealants?
Absolutely! Brushing twice daily and flossing are crucial even with sealants since they don’t cover all tooth surfaces.
If you’re interested in learning more about how dental sealants can benefit you or your child, please contact Open Door Dental at 541-665-1112 today for further information or to schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable team in Central Point, OR.