Sealants and Cavity Prevention at Bowie, MD, Dentistry
Here at Superior Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we believe in preventative dental care and treatments for our patients in Bowie, Maryland. Sealants are an excellent option for preventing cavities and maintaining good overall oral health.
The Benefits of Sealants
Sealants provide many benefits for patients of all ages, both children and adults.
One of the benefits of sealants is their protection against cavities and tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by 80%.
Here are some other benefits of sealants. They:
- Protect tooth enamel and surfaces of the teeth
- Are almost completely invisible and undetectable
- Are durable and can last for years
- Save money on dental treatments in the long run
How Do Sealants Work?
Think of sealants as a tooth in liquid form. Sealants act as a barrier on top of the molars or the tooth’s chewing surface. They prevent food particles from getting lodged into the pits and fissures of your teeth. This helps keep the teeth clean while preventing cavities and the buildup of bacteria.
Sealant Procedure
Our dentists can place sealants on both permanent and baby teeth. The procedure is simple, quick, and painless.
Step 1: The dentist examines and prepares the tooth before sealant application. Since there are no nerves involved, no anesthetic is necessary for a sealant procedure.
Step 2: The dentist will make sure the tooth is clean and dry.
Step 3: We use an etching solution to roughen up the tooth. This allows the sealant to adhere to the tooth properly.
Step 4: We then paint the sealant in liquid form, then it hardens over several minutes. We also use a special curing light to harden the sealant.
Step 5: You’re done! The final result leaves a thin, plastic coating on the surface of your tooth.
Maintaining Your Sealants
Taking care of your sealants only requires that you maintain your daily oral hygiene routine. Sealants can hold up against normal eating and chewing.
As long as you keep up with good brushing and flossing techniques and visit your dentist for regular cleanings, your sealants should last for years without needing a new application.
Sealants in Bowie, MD
Superior Cosmetic and Family Dentistry is a family-owned dental office located in Bowie, Maryland. To learn more about sealants and find out if they might be right for you or your child, call (301) 464-2323 to schedule an appointment or click here to contact us today.