In preventive dentistry, dental sealants act as an additional layer of protection on the teeth, often covering the back molars. While they are commonly used in children, they’re beneficial for many adult patients, improving their oral health painlessly. Below are some reasons to consider them.

Why You Should Consider Preventive Dentistry

1. Cavity Prevention

A cavity forms when bacteria in your mouth feed on food particles and residue on your teeth. They secrete an acidic substance that erodes your enamel and causes decay, which requires involved treatments to correct. Sealants block these bacteria and their wastes from coming into contact with your teeth, preventing the problem before it begins.

2. Better Breath

Beyond preventing bacteria from damaging your enamel, dental sealants also create a smoother, less grooved tooth surface, which doesn’t trap food particles. Whatever food pieces do collect in your mouth will be easily brushed away. Since this decaying matter is often the source of bad breath, you'll have less of it. 

3. Quick Procedure for Lasting Protection

For an experienced dentist, it takes only a few moments to apply the sealant solution to each tooth. No anesthetic or laughing gas is needed because there’s no discomfort. The surfaces of your teeth will be shallowly etched to create an ideal surface for secure adhesion, and then the sealant will be brushed over the tooth and light-cured until it’s hardened. This preventive dentistry procedure takes less than a half hour total, but the protection can last for years. The condition of the sealant will be checked at your regular appointments and reapplied if necessary.

Discuss whether sealants are right for you with the preventive dentistry specialists at the office of Dr. Richard A. Brunmeier, DDS in Lincoln, NE. Serving Lancaster County, this dentist and his team work to make patients feel comfortable by educating them about their procedures. When he’s not at his office, Dr. Brunmeier is giving back by either teaching at the Dental College of UNL or volunteering at Clinic With the Heart. Learn more tips and tricks by following their Facebook. Or call (402) 484-6644 to schedule an appointment today.