Now that school is up and running again, parents may have heard their children's school nurse mention dental sealants. So what are they? Sealants are a protective plastic coating dentists place on posterior teeth (back teeth). Posterior dentition, especially molars and premolars, have deep occlusal grooves, pits, and fissures. These deep grooves are usually very fine and thin, they can be difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene. The toothbrush's thickness is usually greater than that of the teeth's grooves, so bacteria and plaque have a high tendency to remain trapped inside the tooth. The result is an increased likelihood of developing tooth decay.
Your dentist will first make sure the tooth's grooves are clean with a high powered flush and cleansing material. After the tooth is properly cleaned of debris, the tooth properly dried and isolated, the sealant is flowed onto the tooth. The sealant is then light cured and hardened, thereby protecting the grooves from potential decay (cavities).
Sealants can be a viable preventive treatment for kids and adults alike. Dental sealants are not permanent and can wear away (ie. fall off) over time, but it's a great cost effective and simple method to help ward of cavities.
Your family dentist should be able to help you decide if dental sealants are suitable for you and your children's needs.
From your family Bellevue dentist,
Dr. Peter Chien
(425) 614-1600
info@bellevuefamilydentistry.com
No comments:
Post a Comment