Practicing basic dental hygiene will protect your teeth from cavities, but some people — especially children and young teenagers — are more prone to dental decay than others. This can be due to genetics, diet, and other factors. For these patients, a dentist will often recommend sealants. At Tohill Dentistry, offering dental care to patients in the Somerset, KY, area, they’ll gladly answer any questions you may have.

Dental sealants are made of liquid resin and constitute a form of preventative dentistry treatment. A dentist applies the sealants to the spaces in the back molars that are vulnerable to cavities. 

That’s an area of the teeth where food particles frequently get trapped. The sugars from the food can develop into plaque, attracting bacteria which creates dental decay. The sealants prevent bacteria from reaching the surface of the teeth, so it’s best to apply them before decay has begun.

If you stay on top of your oral hygiene and seek regular dental care, your sealants should last up to 10 years. Because they wear away on their own, you don’t have to worry about removing them. The dentist will let you know when it’s time to reapply them if you decide to do so.

Once applied, sealants are essentially invisible. They don’t feel any different from your normal teeth, and the procedure of applying them involves no discomfort. Although they’re recommended for children, anyone who is vulnerable to dental decay can benefit from this treatment. If your family members develop cavities easily, mention this to your dentist.

To learn more, get in touch with the team at Tohill Dentistry, in Somerset, KY. They’ll assess your dental health, confirming whether you’re a good candidate for this treatment. Contact them online to learn about becoming a patient, or call (606) 679-4450.