Using dental sealants as a coating for the teeth to prevent cavities
Cavities can cause significant damage to the smile but are completely preventable. While good oral health habits include daily brushing and flossing and routine dental visits, there is another step you can take to prevent the formation of cavities: the application of dental sealants. Drs. Bari Posner, Anum Ali, and Giancarlo Brezillion of Dental Associates of Hoboken are dentists who can talk to you about the ways you can care for your smile to avoid the formation of cavities and decay, including the use of dental sealants.
What is a dental sealant?
Our team describes the dental sealant as a coating for the teeth to prevent cavities. This coating is made of a thin plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth near the back of the mouth, including molars and premolars. These are areas where cavities commonly form due to the difficulty in cleaning their skinny pits and grooves.
How do dental sealants work?
The purpose of dental sealants is to create a barrier on the tooth’s surface that prevents food particles and bacteria from getting stuck within the grooves and crevices. These spaces are often difficult to clean with a regular toothbrush, making them prime locations for plaque buildup and cavity formation. By sealing off these vulnerable areas, dental sealants prevent cavities from developing.
Who is a good candidate for dental sealants?
Children and teenagers are often thought of as the best candidates for dental sealants, but truthfully, they can be used for patients of all ages who want to protect their smiles from tooth decay. When you are at Dental Associates of Hoboken and undergoing a thorough cleaning with our hygienists, we invite you to open a conversation with our team about your interest in dental sealants so we can make sure they are right for you!
What should I expect during my dental sealant appointment?
During your visit, our dental team starts by thoroughly cleaning and drying the teeth that will receive the sealant. Next, a special solution is applied to the tooth’s surface to help the sealant bond to the enamel. The dental sealant is then carefully painted onto the tooth and is activated with a special light.
Who can I call to learn more about using dental sealants to protect my smile?
The providers at Dental Associates of Hoboken help patients from in and around the community of Hoboken, New Jersey, with their oral health needs. If you are thinking about dental sealants and the role they play in achieving and maintaining oral health and wellness, we invite you to book a consultation visit with our team at 233 Washington Street. Call (201) 795-2111 to request an upcoming evaluation with Drs. Bari Posner, Anum Ali, and Giancarlo Brezillion today!
