Children between the ages of 6 and 14 are the most likely to suffer from cavities. Once you have one cavity, there is a greater likelihood of decay in the future. Whereas good oral hygiene can prevent cavities, with sealants Mississauga you go a step further to prevent decay.
How Do Sealants Work?
A sealant is a coating made of thin plastic applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. It provides protection by covering deep grooves and depressions that are vulnerable to plaque.
Sealants can last up to 10 years. Your dentist will check the condition of sealants at every checkup, replacing them when necessary.
Who Can Receive Sealants?
It is most common to offer sealants to children, especially those at high risk of tooth decay. Your dentist may recommend sealants as soon as permanent premolars and molars erupt.
However, if you are an adult with no decay or fillings in your molars, you can also receive sealants. Children with baby teeth may also receive sealants at times, especially if teeth have deep grooves. This is useful for avoiding premature tooth loss, which can impact spacing of permanent teeth and lead to misalignment.
The Application of Sealants
You and your children can receive sealants in a visit to the dentist. The dental hygienist will begin by cleaning teeth thoroughly and drying each tooth. To keep teeth dry, the dental hygienist will leave cotton or another absorbent material on the tooth.
Next, the dental hygienist will apply acid to the chewing surfaces. This roughens the teeth, assisting with bonding. This is washed off and teeth are dried once again.
Finally, the dental hygienist paints on the sealant. Usually, as it bonds to the tooth, it hardens. Some dentists use a special light to cure the sealant.
[…] a dull and frosty white appearance. This means the tooth is already dry and rough enough for the dental sealants to bond into […]