DENTAL SEALANTS IN WINCHESTER, VA
Taking care of your teeth is essential for keeping them strong and healthy. An optimal oral healthcare routine involves several components. It is important that brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss once daily. Along with your home care routine, it is also important to have regular dental cleanings and exams at least twice a year. Even with proper oral care, it is still possible to face issues. There are some areas of your mouth that are harder to clean than others. One such area is the chewing surfaces of your molars. These surfaces have deep crevices that can be difficult for the bristles of your toothbrush to access. As a result, bacteria and other debris build-up, and cavities can form. At Shenandoah Family Dentistry – Winchester, we can help you to prevent cavities in these areas, aiding in optimizing your oral health, with dental sealants.
WHAT ARE DENTAL SEALANTS?
Dental sealants are a treatment that is applied to the chewing surfaces of your molars. They are designed to protect these areas from the formation of cavities. Made up of plastic and other materials, sealants are used to cover the deep crevices on the chewing surfaces of your molars, preventing bacteria and other debris from building up inside.
Getting your dental sealants is a quick, easy procedure that is done in one visit, and usually takes less than 30 minutes to complete. We begin by thoroughly cleaning and drying your teeth. Acid etch is applied to each molar being treated. The acid works to create a rough texture on the enamel, providing for a better bond between the sealant and the surfaces of your teeth. The acid is cleaned away, and the teeth dried again. Next, we apply the sealant material. Finally, the sealants are dried using a special light
AIDING IN CAVITY PREVENTION
Sealants on the chewing surfaces of your molars provide an additional layer of protection for your teeth against the formation of cavities. They cover over deep crevices, preventing buildup, and they also make your molars easier to maintain. However, sealants are not a substitute for proper oral hygiene practices. Sealants only protect the areas to which they are applied. Cavities can still form on other parts of your teeth, and even around the perimeter of your sealants. You should continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly as well as have your teeth professionally cleaned and examined. While made from plastic, sealants are fairly strong and withstand most normal daily use. However, if your sealants do become damaged, we can easily reapply them for continued protection.
CAN CHILDRENS BENEFIT FROM SEALANTS?
It is a common belief that dental sealants are meant as a treatment for children. While it is true that children frequently get sealants, as they are often more prone to cavities at a young age, anyone can benefit, regardless of age. We can help you to determine if sealants are the best treatment for your specific needs.
Used in conjunction with a normal oral care routine, dental sealants provide an additional layer of protection against cavities. For more information, call Shenandoah Family Dentistry – Winchester today at 540-888-8902.