When it comes to preventive dentistry, most patients focus on teeth cleaning appointments every six months and a healthy oral hygiene routine at home. In addition to these precautionary measures, dentists often recommend sealants. Though dental sealants are most often used for children and teenagers, many adults can benefit as well. If you’re unfamiliar with this option, here’s a closer look.

Understanding Your Preventive Dentistry Options

What Are Sealants?

A thin, plastic coating is applied directly to the chewing surfaces of your teeth, most often the back molars, where it adheres. The application process is quick and seamless. After a teeth cleaning session, your dentist will dry your teeth and apply an acid solution to chewing surfaces to help establish a strong bond.

Teeth will be rinsed and dried again before the sealant is painted directly onto your tooth enamel. Once applied, sealants can last up to a decade, but they need to be checked periodically for chips and wear by your dental team. 

What Are the Benefits?

Once the dental sealant is applied, you have an extra line of defense against tooth decay. This form of preventive dentistry is particularly helpful in molars that have large nooks and crannies where food debris can easily linger and promote unwanted mouth bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sealants prevent 80% of cavities in molars. 

Who Is a Candidate for This Treatment?

Children and teenagers are prime candidates for sealants as a way to successfully prevent tooth decay and cavities in molars. In addition to adolescents, adults who don’t have any fillings or existing tooth decay are eligible for this preventive procedure.

It’s important to note that maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice a day and scheduling professional teeth cleaning appointments with your dentist remain critical to avoiding decay and other dental problems. 

Are you interested in embracing preventive dentistry procedures like sealants to help you and your family maintain a healthy smile? If so, Main Street Dental is the dentist for you. With a family-friendly approach to dental care, this modern clinic has been providing hands-on service to residents throughout La Crosse County, WI, for over three decades. To schedule an appointment, call their office today at (608) 784-4063. For more information on their services and commitment to providing gentle, convenient oral care, visit their website.