Sealants Specialist
Acids in the mouth can lead to cavities, which are holes in your teeth. They’re expensive and inconvenient to fix, but you can prevent them with sealants from dentists Clayton Perry, DDS, and Vincent Freemantle, DDS, at Novato Family Dental Care in Novato, California. To schedule a visit for sealants, call Novato Family Dental Care or book an appointment online today.
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Sealants Q & A
What are sealants?
Sealants are a method of preventing cavities or tooth decay from developing in the grooves on the surfaces of your teeth. It’s not easy to clean these grooves thoroughly, even with a toothbrush with fine bristles. Sealants protect these surfaces so that it’s easier to keep your teeth clean and free of bacteria.
Sealants go on your teeth in liquid form and are generally made of a clear or white resin material. They create a barrier on your tooth that protects your teeth from acid produced by bacteria in food debris or plaque.
Once in place and dry, sealants are discreet, and you can’t feel them. In fact, you might even forget you have them. They’re most effective within a comprehensive dental hygiene plan, which includes regular brushing, exams and cleanings every six months, and using fluoridated products.
What is the process of getting sealants?
Getting sealants happens in a quick visit to Novato Family Dental Care. During the appointment, the team cleans your teeth and etches the surface so it’s easier for the sealant to adhere to the tooth. Your dentist paints on the sealant as a liquid and uses a curing light to harden it.
Once the sealant is secure, your dentist polishes it and checks your bite. If your bite feels uncomfortable, they may shave the sealant to help your teeth fit together more comfortably.
Who should get sealants?
Sealants protect your natural teeth from cavities, but they don't work on restorations like crowns. The team at Novato Family Dental Care recommends getting sealants during childhood around the time when your permanent molars erupt. For most children, that happens sometime between the ages of six and 12.
Sealants can also benefit you if you’re an adult who is prone to cavities and decay. If you’re not sure whether you need sealants, the team at Novato Family Dental Care can talk to you about your oral health and risk factors during your next examination visit. They examine the surfaces of your molars for signs of decay.
How long do sealants last?
With great oral hygiene and routine dental care, sealants can last for several years. During your visits to Novato Family Dental Care, the team checks the conditions of your sealants to see if they’re ready for replacement.
To schedule an appointment at Novato Family Dental Care and explore the benefits of sealants, call the office or book online today.
