Applying Dental Sealants - How It’s Done and How You’ll Feel

Dental sealants protect your teeth from cavities by creating a barrier between bacteria-laden plaque and your tooth enamel. Your back teeth have many small grooves on their surfaces that can trap food particles. They often remain there for a long time because your toothbrush can’t remove them completely. The acids in plaque eventually cause cavities to form. A tooth sealant stops decay before it can start by not allowing plaque to make contact with your teeth. Your dentist may apply sealants to protect your first permanent molars as soon as they arrive.

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

The process is quick, easy, and painless. Following are the five basic steps:

1. The dentist will use a tool called an explorer to look for grooves in your back teeth.
2. A special gel or liquid will be applied to your teeth to help make the surface rough so the sealant can bond with it.
3. Your teeth will be rinsed and dried.
4. A sealant will be applied with a brush to protect and seal teeth.
5. Depending on what type of sealant is used, as special light may be applied to help harden it.

What Should I Expect After a Tooth Sealant Procedure?

When your dentist is finished sealing your teeth, you may play, eat, drink, and do whatever else you desire. You may feel like you are biting onto something at first, but this odd feeling will go away quickly. After a few days, you won’t even know the sealants are on your teeth. A tooth sealant doesn’t last forever, but it can effectively seal teeth for up to ten years. Each time you go for a dental exam, your dentist will check to see how the sealants are doing. If one is chipped or damaged, it can easily be replaced.

Be sure to take care of your teeth and gums in other ways for the best oral health. Brush and floss every day, and try to eat a healthy diet.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Flint, call Family Dental Group today at (810) 515-8952 or make an appointment.

Family Dental Group offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Flint. With 4 affiliated practices throughout Flint, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Family Dental Group, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Family Dental Group.