Cavities are one of the most common dental concerns in Canada. Though tooth decay can often be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental care, it remains incredibly common. Canadian Health Measures Survey reports 93% of Canadian adults (aged 20 to 79) have at least one permanent tooth affected by a cavity.
Along with brushing, flossing and regular dental visits, dental sealants can provide an extra layer of protection against cavities.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings usually applied to the chewing surfaces of adult teeth, mostly on molars and premolars, to protect them from decay. These teeth have natural grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria can easily collect, making them more difficult to clean thoroughly. Sealants fill in these gaps and act as a barrier against decay-causing bacteria.
Sealants are excellent protection against cavities. When combined with daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups, they can help reduce the risk of cavities and the need for fillings or other dental work in the future.
What to consider before getting Dental Sealants
Sealants are not a substitute for daily oral care: Sealants can last for several years; however, it’s still important to brush twice a day, floss regularly, and visit our dental office for routine checkups and cleanings.
Sealants cannot be placed over decayed teeth: If you have an existing cavity or other dental concerns, these may need to be addressed first.
Possible allergy to Sealants: Though rare, some people may be sensitive or allergic to the materials used in sealants. Be sure to let our dental team know about any known allergies or sensitivities so we can determine whether sealants are right for you or your child.
Before our dental team can proceed with sealants for you or your child, we will assess your oral health for any significant dental problems that should be addressed. We will let you know if it’s better to wait before having sealants placed.
What to expect from a Dental Sealant process
Applying dental sealants is a simple and painless process. Our dental team will only require a few minutes to apply the sealant to each tooth. Our dental team will:
- Clean your teeth thoroughly.
- Dry your teeth and place a piece of cotton gauze in the area to keep your tooth surfaces dry.
- Paint a small amount of an acid etching solution on the chewing surfaces of your teeth, which helps the sealants bond properly to your teeth.
- Rinse and dry your teeth.
- Paint the sealant material onto your enamel, where it will bond directly to your tooth.
- Shine a curing light on the sealant material to harden it.
Thinking of Dental Sealants?
If you are considering dental sealants for yourself or your child, we are here to help! Book an appointment at our dental office so we can assess your teeth, discuss your options, and determine whether sealants are a good fit for your preventive dental care needs. We’re accepting new patients and look forward to helping you and your family maintain healthy, confident smiles. Book an appointment today!