Dental Sealants
Dental sealants in Socorro stand out as a powerful yet often overlooked safeguard against tooth decay, especially among young dental patients. At Sunray Family Dentistry, we recognize the significance of this preventative measure and can ensure our patients have a thorough understanding of its benefits. From children to adults, the protective layer of dental sealants can make a considerable difference in maintaining a healthy, radiant smile for years to come.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating, usually made of plastic, that we can apply to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). The primary purpose of sealants is to create a smooth surface over the pits and fissures of these teeth, preventing the accumulation of food particles and bacteria that lead to decay.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
The back teeth can be particularly challenging to clean, as their uneven surfaces often trap food and other substances. Dental sealants act as a barrier, shielding the tooth enamel from the acids that cause cavities.
Protecting Teeth From Cavities
Keeping the most cavity-prone areas sealed significantly reduces the likelihood of developing a cavity. This is especially true for younger patients whose dental hygiene practices may still develop.
Long-term Cost Savings
The investment in dental sealants yields both present and future benefits. For families, the upfront cost is often outweighed by the long-term savings of avoiding more complex and costly dental procedures.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive dental sealants when their permanent molars emerge, typically around six, and again when their twelve-year molars come in.
Patients With Specific Dental Conditions
Those with deep grooves or depressions in their teeth, making them more susceptible to decay, are prime candidates for dental sealants, regardless of age.
Procedure for Applying Dental Sealants
The process involves a few simple steps in our state-of-the-art dental facility. We first clean the tooth, then condition it to help the sealant bond to the tooth. Finally, the sealant material is applied and hardened with a special light. No anesthesia is required, and the process is quick and painless.
Duration and Aftercare Tips
Applying sealants is a rapid process, frequently taking only a few minutes per tooth. After the application, patients can eat and drink as they usually would. However, we typically recommend avoiding hot beverages or hard or sticky foods that could rub away at the sealant while chewing for a few hours. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups are crucial to ensure the sealants are intact and effective.
Generally speaking, dental sealants can protect your teeth for anywhere between five to ten years before needing to be replaced. However, certain factors may influence their longevity, such as poor oral hygiene habits, chewing on hard objects, or grinding their teeth.
Why Choose Sunray Family Dentistry for Dental Sealants?
We pride ourselves on providing personalized care that caters to the unique needs of our patients. Our team members are specifically trained in the application of dental sealants, ensuring a high-quality and comfortable experience every time.
Socorro Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can be a game-changer in preventive dentistry in Socorro, Texas, especially for our younger patients. It is an essential service that aligns with our commitment to comprehensive dental care.
We encourage all parents and guardians to consider dental sealants as part of their children’s preventative oral care program, including dental fillings, fluoride treatments, and more. By making informed decisions and taking proactive steps, you invest in your child’s long-term dental health and well-being. Together, we can keep smiles bright and healthy for a lifetime.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alejandro Alonso at
Sunray Family Dentistry!
