Our back molars and premolars are made to chew and tear, their natural grooves provide them with with ability to soften our food and make it easier to swallow and digest. Unfortunately, there is a downside to this feature, those grooved surfaces attract and hold food particles and bacteria that may have been left behind after brushing and can lead to decay. The good news is that there is a way to prevent that from happening.
A dental sealant is a thin plastic material that your dentist can apply to the surface of your teeth to protect them from infection. It is a quick and simple process that is done in the office by the dentist or hygienist as part of a regularly scheduled exam and cleaning. An acidic solution is applied as a sort of undercoat to prepare the tooth’s surface for the sealant which is then painted onto the tooth and bonded to it with the help of a curing light.
Dental sealants are most often recommended for children who are cavity prone but can actually be used for any permanent tooth that is cavity free and has not been treated for decay. A sealant can be expected to last for a number of years but are not immune to wear and tear. A sealant can easily be replaced if necessary.
Prevention is basic at 303 Dental Group in Highlands Ranch, CO. Call 303-578-9962 today for your appointment.
