Dental Sealants

At Gentle Dentist in St. Clair Shores, MI, we offer dental sealants as a preventive measure to protect your teeth from cavities and decay. Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars), where decay is most likely to occur. Sealants act as a barrier, sealing out food particles and bacteria that can lead to cavities.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants offer numerous benefits, including:

• Prevention of Cavities: Sealants provide a protective barrier that shields teeth from plaque and acids, significantly reducing the risk of cavities.
• Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can protect teeth from decay for several years with proper care and maintenance.
• Painless Application: The application of dental sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive, making it an ideal preventive measure for children and adults.
• Cost-Effective: Sealants are a cost-effective way to prevent dental problems that can lead to more extensive and expensive treatments in the future.
• Improved Oral Health: By protecting teeth from decay, sealants help maintain overall oral health and reduce the likelihood of future dental issues.

Best Age for Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are most effective when applied to the teeth of children and teenagers. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children receive sealants as soon as their permanent molars and premolars come in, typically around ages 6 to 14. However, adults who are at high risk of cavities can also benefit from sealants.

How Dental Sealants Are Applied

The application of dental sealants involves the following steps:

1. Cleaning the Teeth: The dentist will thoroughly clean the teeth to remove any plaque or food particles.
2. Preparing the Tooth Surface: An acidic gel is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen them, allowing the sealant to bond properly.
3. Rinsing and Drying: The gel is rinsed off, and the teeth are dried.
4. Applying the Sealant: The dentist applies the sealant material to the grooves and fissures of the chewing surfaces.
5. Curing the Sealant: A special light is used to harden the sealant, creating a strong, protective shield over the teeth.

Contact Gentle Dentist Today

Ready to protect your teeth from cavities with dental sealants? Contact Gentle Dentist in St. Clair Shores, MI, today to schedule your appointment. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing preventive dental care for patients of all ages. Call us at 586-771-1990.