Exploring the Best Dental Sealants in Carlsbad, CA
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DeAngelis Family Dentistry is your #1 Dentist in Carlsbad, CA, and we’re passionate about helping you maintain healthy teeth for a lifetime. One of the best ways to do that is through preventative services like dental sealants. Even though most patients getting sealants are younger, older teens and adults can benefit from protective selants too!
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (specifically the molars and premolars.) These teeth have deep grooves and fissures or pits on the chewing surfaces that can easily trap food particles and bacteria. This makes them more susceptible to decay. Dental sealants act as a shield, sealing off these vulnerable areas and preventing tooth decay from taking hold. They also make it easier to clean the tooth with a toothbrush, so you or your child has a less of a chance of developing new cavities.
Dental Sealants Prevent Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a common dental problem that occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and produces acids which will then erode the tooth enamel. While regular brushing and flossing play a significant role in maintaining oral hygiene, the back teeth can be challenging to clean thoroughly due to their deep grooves and fissures. Even if you brush well, plaque and acids can accumulate inside the tiny, narrow grooves that are too small for a toothbrush to reach.
This is where dental sealants come to the rescue! The application of sealants creates a physical barrier on the tooth surface, protecting the vulnerable areas from bacterial infiltration and acid. By sealing off the deep grooves and fissures, dental sealants make it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene and significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay before it even has a chance to start.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
On average, dental sealants can last for several years with proper care. However, it is important to note that regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring the condition of the sealants and touching them up as needed.
Unlike dental fillings that go inside of teeth, sealants go on top of them and can get pulled off if you eat something too sticky. They may even wear down if you clench and grind your teeth a lot. If one comes off, you’ll want to have it replaced at your earliest convenience.
Getting Dental Sealants
If you are considering dental sealants for yourself or your child, the process only takes a few minutes. No numbing or drilling is needed! This procedure is painless and non-invasive.
Here’s what you can expect: First, we will clean and dry the tooth surface off entirely. Next, we’ll apply a special etching gel that prepares the tooth by slightly roughening its surface. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, we will carefully paint the sealant onto the grooves and fissures. The sealant material bonds quickly to the tooth (sometimes a light is used to cure the material,) forming a reliable protective shield.
Although you might feel like there’s something on your tooth right after, this sensation is temporary. Most sealants smooth out after eating a few times, or you simply get used to the thin protective layer.
Again, it’s important to avoid sticky textures—such as taffy or hard caramel—which can pull the sealant off your tooth. Otherwise, you can go back to your normal routine immediately after the appointment.
Since dental sealants are so easy to apply, you may not even need a separate appointment for the procedure. In most cases, we can place them on the same day as your dental checkup.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Protecting your teeth from tooth decay is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Carlsbad dental sealants are an excellent preventive measure, especially for the back teeth that are more prone to cavities. Give your teeth the protection they need, and schedule a consultation with DeAngelis Family Dentistry today.
