Dental sealants are thin and transparent materials applied to molars to protect teeth. Dentists usually recommend them for children to maintain their healthy teeth and prevent damage. The material is cured and painted with a special light and provides effective results. The CDC reports that dental sealants can prevent 80% of cavities two years after application and 50% of cavities up to four years. They can last for up to nine years.
Dental sealants keep cavities from forming and stop the early stages of decay from progressing into a full cavity. They are highly recommended for children due to their ability to manage bacteria and help prevent dental decay. While we often suggest them for younger patients, adults and older patients can also benefit from them. They’ll help protect your teeth and smile! Cavities can result in the following:
- Toothache
- Tooth sensitivity
- Pain/discomfort when eating or drinking something cold or hot
- Permanently weakened tooth
- Pain when biting down
The process is quick and painless, where we start by cleaning and drying your tooth. We then place an acidic gel on your teeth to form a strong bond between the tooth and sealant. Then we rinse off the gel, dry the tooth, and apply the sealant into the tooth’s grooves. Finally, a special blue light is used to harden the material. Even after receiving dental sealants in San Diego, we always recommend practicing good dental hygiene habits! It’s the key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy over time.
Carmichael Dentistry | Cosmetic, Implant & General Dentistry
If you want to help protect your child’s teeth and smile, Dr. Carmichael is here to help! To prevent common dental problems, we recommend brushing your teeth with toothpaste that contains fluoride twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash 1-2 times a day. Visit your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning to remove plaque and check your oral health for any problems. If you’d like to schedule your next dental appointment with Dr. Carmichael, give us a call at (858) 484-2560 or contact us on our website!
