Dental Sealants
A dental sealant is a very thin coating of plastic. It is applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. It is also used to fill pits, fissures, and grooves in the teeth. These deep grooves is where the great majority of dental decay starts. When teeth have these conditions, they are difficult to clean and may experience decay. A sealant seals deep grooves, providing protection and creating a surface that is smooth and easy to clean.
Be sure your dentist checks your sealants for chipping and wear at each visit. With proper care, your sealant will last years.
Why get a sealant?
• Teenagers and children - It is a good idea during the cavity prone years(6-16). This is as soon as the first permanent molars appear.
• Adults - Teeth with no signs of decay but that have deep grooves or depressions.
• Baby teeth - Sometimes performed if teeth are deeply grooved or have depressions and the child is prone to getting cavities.
What is involved in the application of sealants?
Your dental hygienist or your dentist can apply sealants quickly and easily. It just takes about two minutes per tooth.
Once the teeth that need to be sealed are completely clean, they will be surrounded with cotton to keep them dry. The surface of the enamel receives an application of a special material that will help the sealant bond to the teeth. Next the teeth are rinsed and dried. The deep grooves and depressions in the surface of the enamel are covered with sealant material. Considering the kind of sealant that is applied, the substance will either get hard by itself or by using a special curing light.
The life of the new sealants will be assisted by a balanced diet, proper care at home, and regular visits to the dentist.
Bonita Del Rey Dental
Chula Vista Cosmetic Dentist
serving the Chula Vista, Eastlake and Bay Area, San Diego..
