Sealants
What is a Dental Sealant?
A dental sealant is a thin plastic coating applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of healthy, decay-free teeth. Sealants create a physical barrier that literally “seals out” the food and bacteria that cause tooth decay.
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What are some reasons to get Dental Sealants?
Properly applied, sealants are 100% effective at preventing tooth decay.
- To maintain dental health for children with new permanent teeth and to prevent future dental problems in adults.
- To save time and money in the long run by preventing tooth decay—especially when risk factors are present (for example, history of cavities, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth conditions and low fluoride intake).
- Sealants are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care (regular cleanings, healthy oral hygiene habits, proper diet, etc.)
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What are some reasons to get Dental Sealants?
Only one brief appointment (30 to 60 minutes) is required to seal all of the back teeth. First, the teeth will be thoroughly cleaned with air abrasion. Your dentist or hygienist will then apply an etching solution to roughen the surface of the teeth so the sealant material can better adhere. The chewing surfaces are then thoroughly dried and the sealant material carefully applied to the grooves of the teeth. An ultraviolet light is used to harden the material so it is firmly bonded to the teeth for a tight protective seal. After a careful inspection to ensure that the seal is secure, your procedure is complete.
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Which of my teeth will most benefit from Dental Sealants?
Sealants are most often used on the back teeth, which are the teeth at most risk for decay and cavities. These teeth have deep grooves that are too narrow to be reached by toothbrush bristles. Because these grooves and fissures are difficult to clean, food and bacteria can become trapped there.
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Are Dental Sealants expensive?
Sealants are very cost effective way to maintain dental health. Sealant protection for one tooth typically costs much less than a traditional amalgam (silver) filling costs and just a fraction of the cost of a root canal or crown restoration. The protection provided by sealants usually lasts for many years.
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I thought that Dental Sealants were only for children. Is that true?
Both children and adults can benefit from the added protection sealants provide. Children benefit greatly from sealants for several reasons. The enamel on a newly erupted tooth takes a full three years to mature. This leaves young teeth especially vulnerable to decay. Children also sometimes have difficulty maintaining good dental hygiene. However, it is never too late for sealants—adults are also at risk tooth decay and should consider sealants, especially when they have risk factors for cavities.
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How can I find out more about Dental Sealants?
If you have any questions about Dental Sealants, or would like to schedule an examination to determine if Dental Sealants are right for you, please call our office at (603)672-6546 or e-mail info@ameridentnh.com
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