Sometimes smiles are especially vulnerable to tooth decay, even if people brush and floss. To help limit the risk of cavities, we could place dental sealants to protect the portions of the smile most likely to develop tooth decay. In today’s blog, your Allen, TX, family dentist is talking about the benefits of dental sealants.
Who Do They Benefit?
We can recommend dental sealants for children, as kids have trouble reaching the rear molars, allowing food particles to become trapped there and left for bacteria to consume, leading to tooth decay. Likewise, this can help children and adults with special needs that make thorough brushing and flossing difficult, or those with limited dexterity. The acrylic layer we place onto the rear teeth prevents food particles from becoming stuck to them, so the chance of cavities forming there is severely limited.
Placing Dental Sealants
We begin by gently drying the teeth and then applying the acrylic material in several layers. We next cure the material with a special light, and this provides a protective layer for the most vulnerable teeth in the smile. Bits of sugar and starch for the foods and drinks we consume can no longer be trapped there, and they can stay in place for between five and ten years on average. They wear away gradually with time, and will cling to the deepest and most vulnerable portions of the structure for the longest. If needed, we can always re-apply again at a future appointment.
Other Preventive Actions
During each checkup and cleaning visit, we can use the cleaning portion to remove the plaque and tartar layers that weaken outer enamel and make cavities possible. We could also apply a fluoride treatment, applying a gel to the teeth that actually strengthens the outer enamel to make cavities less likely. You can also help protect your smile by cutting back on your consumption of sugary and starchy foods, and drinks with lots of sugars and acids in them. Be sure you brush and floss daily too, as this limits plaque buildup and helps prevent cavities, gingivitis, and even gum disease.
If you have any questions about our preventive treatments or if you want to know if they’re right for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to make sure you and your family enjoy healthy and strong smiles!
Talk To Your Allen, TX Dentist About Family Dentistry
With preventive care for the entire family, we can help everyone smile with confidence. If you want to know more about how we lower the rates of tooth decay in your smile, or if you are ready to book an appointment, contact your Allen, TX, dentist, Dr. Torrens-Parker, by calling 469-342-6644.
