Protect Your Teeth from Cavities with Preventive Sealants
Sealants
Maintaining excellent dental care is essential for a healthy and vibrant smile. While regular brushing and flossing are crucial, dental sealants are an additional preventive measure that provides an extra layer of protection against tooth decay. These thin, protective coatings act as a barrier, shielding your back teeth from the harmful effects of plaque and bacteria.
At Encompass Dental Studio, serving Columbus, OH, we are committed to providing trusted, modern, and highly personalized dental care for patients of all ages. As a family-owned practice, we focus on proactive solutions to protect oral health, and dental sealants are one of the most effective tools for preventing tooth decay.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin coatings that act as a protective shield when applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, primarily the back molars and premolars. They act as a physical barrier, sealing the grooves and fissures on these surfaces, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling in and causing decay.
Just like a raincoat keeps you dry, dental sealants prevent harmful substances from penetrating the tooth enamel and causing cavities. Sealants make it easier to clean every tooth surface with regular brushing, ensuring optimal dental care for years to come.
How Sealant Material Protects Against Decay
Tooth decay, or dental caries, occurs when bacteria produce acids that break down the enamel. If untreated, this process can lead to cavities that require fillings. Sealants create a smooth surface over the grooves of the teeth, reducing the risk of decay by blocking out food particles and bacteria. These simple restorations significantly enhance your cavity prevention efforts when combined with good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and fluoride treatments.
Modern resin sealants are durable and, with proper care, can last up to 10 years. During a routine exam, one of our doctors will check the condition of your sealants to ensure they continue to provide optimal protection.
Who Benefits From Sealants?
Children and teenagers are prime candidates for dental sealants, as their first and second molars erupt between 6 and 12 years old. Applying sealants as soon as these permanent molars emerge offers maximum protection against decay during the years when teeth are most vulnerable.
However, adults can also benefit from dental sealants, especially if deep grooves or pits in their teeth are prone to trapping food. Additionally, individuals with a higher risk of decay, such as those with dry mouth or a history of cavities, may find sealants particularly beneficial.
Our Simple Process of Getting Dental Sealants
At Encompass Dental Studio in Central Ohio, we make the sealant application process quick, comfortable, and effective. It is a fast, painless process often completed during a regular dental checkup.
Examination and Cleaning
One of our dentists will examine your teeth to ensure they’re healthy and decay-free. A skilled team member will clean the chewing surfaces of your molars to prepare them for the sealant.
Preparing the Tooth
An etching solution is applied to the tooth’s surface to create a slightly rough texture. This step allows the sealant to bond securely to the enamel.
Applying the Sealant
The sealant, a liquid resin, is painted onto the grooves of your teeth. Once applied, it flows into the nooks and crannies, sealing them from harmful bacteria.
Hardening the Sealant
We use a special curing light to harden the sealant in seconds. Once hardened, the sealant forms a durable shield that protects your teeth from decay.
Final Check
Our dentists will evaluate the sealant placement, ensuring a smooth and natural feel that doesn’t interfere with your bite.
Sealants and Comprehensive Dental Care
Dental sealants are an essential part of our preventive dentistry services. Regular dental visits, professional cleanings performed by our dental hygienists, and fluoride treatments help protect your teeth and gums from common dental issues. Our goal is to support your oral health at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood.
Protect your teeth and smile with expert care from the team at Encompass Dental Studio. Whether you’re interested in sealants for your child or yourself, we’re here to help. Call us to schedule an appointment or learn more about our preventive dental services in Central Ohio.
