Dental Sealants Act As A Strong Line Of Defense Against Cavities

Cavities are always difficult to prevent, no matter how much we brush and floss our teeth. Our back teeth, in particular, are rough, uneven, and hard to reach with a toothbrush. Add to that the challenge of teaching kids how to brush correctly when their brand-new molars erupt, and you increase the chances of getting cavities. A great way to keep molars free of cavities is dental sealants.

A dental sealant is a thin clear coating of plastic or composite resin applied to the molars. This extra layer of protection keeps cavities away by blocking germs and food debris from getting stuck in the ridges and gaps between the teeth.

Parents should consider getting dental sealants for their children to protect their new molars, usually from the age of 6 for their first set and in their early teens for their permanent molars and wisdom teeth. Adults can also get dental sealants from their dentist in Methuen if they have early signs of cavities.

Dental sealants don't need anesthesia for application, so it is quick, easy, and painless for children and grownups alike. During your appointment, your dentist will clean, disinfect, rinse and dry your teeth, then gently paint the sealant, which is in liquid form, onto the surface of your teeth. The sealant is then hardened and set (cured) using a UV light shined onto the teeth.

With good oral hygiene, dental sealants can last between 5 and 9 years, and if they ever come off, reapplication takes minutes. Since dental sealants are completely transparent, the best way to ensure that they remain intact is to visit your dentist regularly for checkups. Your dentist in Methuen will easily spot and replace missing sealants.

Methuen Family Dentistry believes in preventing tooth decay, especially for children and young adults as their teeth grow. We are ready to answer any questions you may have about dental sealants, so call us today.