How are sealants applied?
Applying sealants is quite simple. First, the teeth are cleaned. Then the teeth to be sealed are dabbed with a very mild acid solution similar in strength to vinegar or lemon juice. This roughens the tooth surface very slightly so that the sealant will bond to it properly. After the tooth is prepared, the sealant is painted onto the tooth. It flows into the pits and grooves and hardens in about 60 seconds. After sealing, bacteria cannot reach the pits and grooves, therefore cannot cause decay. Applying sealants requires no drilling or removal of tooth surface. Tooth structure is left intact-healthy teeth are protected from decay forming bacteria.
In this painless procedure, a solution is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth to condition the enamel and help it bond more effectively to the sealant material. The tooth is thoroughly washed and dried. Then the sealant material is applied and allowed to harden, sometimes using ultraviolet light. The procedure takes only a few minutes. How Long Do Sealants Last? Depending on your chewing pattern, the sealant effect can last many years. Even though sealant material is durable, at subsequent dental appointments we make sure the sealant material is intact. Occasionally, we might need to replace or add a new layer of sealant material to keep the protective barrier strong and effective. Now That Your Teeth Have Been Sealed Chewing on ice cubes, hard candy or very sticky foods should be avoided as much as possible. Her are some tasty, healthful snack alternatives that, combined with sealants, fluoride and good home care, can help to reduce your susceptibility to tooth decay.
Sealants are applied by a dental hygienist or dentist. First, the teeth to be treated are cleaned and polished. A mild acidic solution is placed on the chewing surface. This roughens the enamel surface to effectively bond with the sealant material. After rinsing and drying the tooth, the sealant material is flowed onto the tooth. Then the dental hygienist or dentist shines a bright light on the area for a few seconds. This light hardens the sealant instantly. Finally the bite is checked. How long do Sealants Last? With advances in dental technology and materials, properly applied sealants last for many years.
Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth structure. It is an easy three-step process: A dentist or dental hygienist cleans the tooth with a special toothpaste. A special cleansing liquid, on a tiny piece of cotton, is rubbed gently on the tooth and is washed off. Finally, the sealant is painted on the tooth. It takes about a minute for the sealant to form a protective shield. • What if a small cavity is accidentally covered by a sealant? The decay will not spread because it is sealed off from its food and germ supply. • Why is sealing a tooth better than waiting for decay and filling the cavity? Sealants help maintain sound, intact teeth. Decay destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time a tooth is filled or a filling is replaced, additional tooth structure is lost. Fillings last an average of 6 to 8 years before they need to be replaced. Appropriate use of sealants can save time, money, and the discomfort associated with dental treatment procedures. • Are seala
