Saskatoon Dental Group is a locally owned, full-scale Saskatoon dental clinic offering general dentistry services. At Saskatoon Dental Group, we are dedicated to offering excellent care to our amazing patients who are like family to us. We are grateful to treat whole families in Saskatoon across multiple generations and have a multicultural team speaking multiple languages. Maintaining optimal oral health goes beyond brushing and flossing; it often requires a proactive approach to safeguard our teeth against decay. Dental advancements have introduced Saskatoon Dental Group to various tools and techniques, and one technique is the application of tooth sealants. These unassuming yet powerful dental protectors have changed the way we combat cavities and preserve our pearly whites. Today we are going to review the wonders of tooth sealants.
The Wonders of Tooth Sealants
What are Tooth Sealants?
Tooth sealants are thin, protective coatings made from plastic materials, typically applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These back teeth contain pits and fissures that can be hard to clean effectively, making them susceptible to decay over time. Sealants act as a barrier, sealing off these vulnerable areas from bacteria and food particles that can lead to cavities.
How Do They Work?
The application of tooth sealants is a quick, painless, and non-invasive process. This is how it works:
- Preparation: First, the tooth’s surface is thoroughly cleaned to remove any plaque or debris. This ensures that the sealant sticks properly to the tooth.
- Isolation: The tooth is isolated and kept dry to ensure the sealant bonds effectively. A cotton roll or a rubber dam may be used to achieve this.
- Etching: A mild acidic solution is applied to the tooth’s surface to create a slightly rough texture. This helps the sealant adhere securely to the tooth.
- Application: Once the tooth is prepared, the liquid sealant is applied to the pits and fissures. The sealant material flows into the grooves, and a special light may be used to harden it, forming a protective shield.
- Curing: The curing process ensures that the sealant bonds to the tooth’s surface. It usually takes just a few seconds of exposure to a curing light.
The result is a seamless, invisible layer that safeguards the tooth from plaque, bacteria, and acids. Sealants can last for several years, but regular dental check-ups are important to monitor their condition and ensure their effectiveness.
Benefits of Tooth Sealants
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants provide an effective barrier against cavities by preventing bacteria and food particles from settling in the tooth’s crevices.
- Painless and Quick: The application process is painless and typically takes just a few minutes per tooth.
- Cost-effective: Sealants are a cost-effective preventive measure that can potentially save you from the expenses and discomfort associated with dental treatments for cavities.
- Suitable for All Ages: While commonly applied to children’s teeth, adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if their molars and premolars are prone to decay.
- Enhanced Oral Health: By reducing the risk of cavities, sealants contribute to overall improved oral health and help in preserving your smile for years to come.
Tooth sealants are a proactive measure we can take to ensure our teeth’s longevity and health. With their simple application and remarkable benefits, they offer a practical solution for maintaining our oral well-being and ensuring that our smiles remain as bright as ever.
Click Here to Read our other articles about good dental habits
Book your appointment today! Saskatoon Dental Group is always welcoming patients looking for a new dental family. If you would like to book a checkup or have any dental questions please do not hesitate to contact our team.
See you soon!
The Saskatoon Dental Group Team
