Sealants

Andrea Patterson, DDS

Brushing and flossing after every meal are essential practices in maintaining good dental health. Brushing eliminates the bacteria found in plaque that causes tooth decay. The longer plaque remains on the surface of the tooth, the more likely it is that a cavity will form. However, it’s not always easy to reach the deep grooves and crevices of the back teeth. These grooves are narrow and toothbrush bristles cannot always reach all the way back into the mouth to clean these premolars and molars. These areas, if left unchecked, are where tooth decay is most likely to occur.

To protect these teeth against bacteria, plaque and decay, dentists can place thin plastic barriers called sealants on the back teeth. Sealants are simple to apply. Andrea Patterson, DDS can seal your teeth in one short visit. The first step is to clean your teeth. Then, an acid solution is applied to the teeth that are to be sealed. This solution roughens the surface area of the tooth, making it easier for the sealant to grab onto the tooth. Finally, the sealant is painted on the tooth enamel where the plastic resin bonds directly to the chewing surfaces of the tooth as it hardens. This sealant creates a smooth surface that is easy to clean.

The tooth surface will be protected as long as the sealant remains intact. A well-applied sealant will hold up for several years under the force of normal chewing. It is important that you schedule regular dental visits so your dentist can monitor the condition of these sealants. Andrea Patterson, DDS will reapply the sealant when necessary.

Children are more likely to develop pit and fissure decay so applying preventative sealants can keep this decay from beginning and help maintain children's health. Permanent molars usually come in around age twelve. Some dentists recommend immediately applying sealant as soon as the teeth fully erupt before any decay has a chance to begin. If a tooth has been filled, a sealant cannot be applied over the filling.

It would seem like an easy solution to apply a sealant over all the teeth, but the plastic does not attach to the smooth surfaces of the front teeth. Sealants work best in the rough grooves found on the wider, tops of the back teeth.

Using this preventative measure can also save you money in the long run. Cheaper than most fillings, sealants may be a good option for both children and adults who want to avoid future fillings. If you live near Albuquerque, NM call Andrea Patterson, DDS at (505) 369-0074 to discuss whether sealants can help you achieve your oral hygiene goals.

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