At our clinic, we understand the importance of preventive dental care, which is why we are proud to offer dental sealants as a proactive measure to protect your teeth from decay. Dental sealants are a simple yet effective treatment aimed at combating cavities and maintaining oral health.
Your back teeth are the areas most susceptible to decay because they are harder to clean thoroughly, especially for children and teens just mastering their brushing techniques. Dental sealants are coatings that are applied to these back teeth to protect the from decay, which quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a shield over the enamel of each tooth.
Sealants are particularly beneficial for children and teenagers as they are in the critical years of developing permanent teeth. Adults can also receive dental sealants if they have problematic teeth that are prone to decay. Essentially, anyone looking to add a layer of protection against cavities can consider sealants. Our dental team can advise whether sealants are a suitable option for you or your family.
During your visit, our dentist will first clean and dry the tooth before placing an acidic gel on its surfaces. This gel roughens the tooth surface on a microscopic level, which helps the sealant bond securely. After a few seconds, we rinse off the gel, dry the tooth again and then apply the sealant to the tooth’s grooves. The sealant is then hardened under a special light, securing it in place and allowing you to use your tooth as normal immediately after the procedure.
Dental sealants can protect the teeth for up to ten years with proper care. During your regular dental visits, our team will check the condition of the sealants and can reapply them if necessary. It is important to continue practicing good oral hygiene — brushing twice a day, flossing daily and attending regular dental check-ups — to extend the life of the sealants and maintain overall dental health.
Opting for dental sealants is a decision that offers numerous benefits. They prevent tooth decay by keeping out food particles and bacteria that lead to cavities. This is especially significant for those areas of the teeth that are difficult to reach during regular brushing. By preventing cavities, sealants also save money in the long run, as the cost of preventive care is significantly less than treating conditions that develop into serious issues.
At Optima Dental Care, we are committed to providing you and your family with the best preventive care available. We believe that dental sealants play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and are an excellent investment in the long-term well-being of your smile.
We invite you to visit us and discuss with our dental team how dental sealants in Post Falls, Idaho, can be part of your strategy for a healthy mouth. Call us at 208-773-5121 to schedule your visit with Dr. Scott Johnson to discuss your options.
208-773-5121