Dental Sealants
 Tooth decay can be a concern for many, but with the advancement of preventive dentistry measures such as dental sealants, these worries can be put to rest. At Jeanette Thai, DDS, we are dedicated to offering quality solutions that enhance the longevity and health of your smile. If you are considering dental sealants, our dentist is here to guide you through every step of the process.Understanding Dental SealantsDental sealants are thin protective layers designed to cover the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, particularly molars and premolars. These teeth usually have intricate pits and grooves that can easily trap food particles and bacteria. Sealants act as a barrier, preventing these harmful elements from settling and causing cavities. Dental sealants are usually made of medical-grade resins, either derived from plants or synthetically produced. Another common material used is glass ionomers, which is essentially a mix of glass powder and a water-soluble acid. Who Can Benefit From Dental Sealants?Children and teenagers often receive dental sealants as their molars and premolars emerge. By doing so, the sealants can protect their teeth during the years they are most susceptible to tooth decay. Adults who have never had dental fillings in their molars are also potential candidates for sealants. Occasionally, if the primary teeth of a child have pronounced grooves, our dentist might suggest sealants for them. This is to ensure the health of the baby teeth, which play a critical role in spacing and guiding the permanent teeth into their correct positions. In our practice, we have noticed the increasing popularity of sealants as a preventive measure. Many of our patients, both young and old, have embraced this treatment for its simple yet effective approach to fighting cavities. How We Apply Dental Sealants at Our PracticeThe process of applying dental sealants is simple and pain-free. During a routine visit, our dentist will first clean your teeth thoroughly to ensure no bacteria is trapped beneath the sealant. After cleaning, our dentist will apply an acid etching solution to the chewing surfaces to enhance the bonding of the sealant. Once your teeth are prepared and dried, our dentist will paint sealant material onto the enamel. In the final step, our dentist will use a curing light to harden the sealant, ensuring it adheres well and offers maximum protection. The Longevity and Care of Dental SealantsOn average, dental sealants can last up to five years, after which they may need reapplication. Immediately after leaving our practice, you can resume eating and drinking. However, our dentist recommends avoiding excessively hard or sticky foods to ensure the longevity of the sealants. Routine dental exams, ideally every six months, allow our dentist to assess the condition of your sealants and recommend any necessary actions. Moreover, these visits give you an opportunity to discuss any other dental concerns or treatments, such as dental sealants, that you might be considering. At Jeanette Thai, DDS, we always strive to offer the best in dental care. For further inquiries or to schedule an appointment, please contact us at (949) 837-8482. Let us work together to ensure your smile remains bright and healthy! |
