Daily brushing and flossing are the most practical strategies for maintaining good oral hygiene. They help prevent tooth decay and cavities. However, the back teeth, including the premolars, molars, and wisdom teeth, can be challenging to brush. They have grooves that make it difficult for a regular toothbrush to access appropriately. Food particles can get lodged inside these grooves. Over time, the stuck food debris can increase the likelihood of developing cavities. A dental professional can apply dental sealants to your back teeth, protecting them from dental caries.
What Is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a thin resin or ionomer coating applied to the grooves or fissures on the back teeth. It protects and shields the premolars, molars, and wisdom teeth from cavities. It prevents plaque and tartar from accumulating in the grooves of the back teeth, reducing the likelihood of dental caries.
Types of Dental Sealants
The types of dental sealants vary based on the material used to make them. Resin-based sealants are the most common type of dental sealants. They are renowned for their high tensile strength and low desiccation. However, they require dental bonding to keep them in place. Glass ionomer sealants are another option. They are stiff and have low thermal expansion.
Who Needs Dental Sealants?
Anyone can be a suitable candidate for dental sealants. However, children and teens are more likely to benefit from sealants since they are more prone to cavities. Sealants can help them stay cavity-free until they develop permanent teeth. Adults can also get sealants, especially those at a high risk of tooth cavities.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can have numerous benefits. They help keep the back teeth cavity-free for years. They are long-lasting and can protect the teeth against cavities for up to 4 years. Most importantly, they ensure your teeth remain strong and healthy for a long time. Getting sealants is a quick and painless procedure.
Contact Us Today
Getting sealants can help protect your teeth from cavities and decay. Contact us today to speak to our dentist about dental sealants.
Dentist Bellevue • About Cooley Smiles Bellevue For over 35 years, we've built a reputation for delivering quality general and cosmetic dental services available. Call or schedule an appointment today! Cooley Smiles, 4100 Factoria Blvd SE, Suite C, Bellevue, WA 98006-1262 | (425) 998-6998 | cooleysmiles.com | 10/5/2024 | Key Phrases: dental office, dental office in bellevue wa, dental clinic
Daily brushing and flossing are the most practical strategies for maintaining good oral hygiene. They help prevent tooth decay and cavities. However, the back teeth, including the premolars, molars, and wisdom teeth, can be challenging to brush. They have grooves that make it difficult for a regular toothbrush to access appropriately. Food particles can get lodged inside these grooves. Over time, the stuck food debris can increase the likelihood of developing cavities. A dental professional can apply dental sealants to your back teeth, protecting them from dental caries.