Sealants
Sealants are thin coatings of a tooth-colored plastic resin material that are painted on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars). The recesses and grooves in molars and their difficult-to-reach placement make them particularly vulnerable to cavities. The sealant fills these areas to help keep bacteria and food particles from settling within them.
Sealants are most often applied to children and teens when their adult teeth first erupt, but in many cases, adults can benefit from sealants as well. A sealant can be up to 80% more effective at cavity prevention for the first 2 years. Reapplying every couple of years can save a lot of pain, dental issues, and money in the long run.
This preventative procedure is non-invasive and only takes a few minutes per tooth. Here is the process, step-by-step:
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The tooth is thoroughly cleaned to remove any food particles and bacteria, then dried.
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A special solution prepares the surface of the tooth, making it easier for the solution to bond.
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The sealant is applied.
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A special appliance that uses a blue light is shone on the sealant to harden it.
If your child's baby teeth are already showing signs of decay or you or your child are deemed at a higher risk for tooth decay, sealants may be a good option to help keep the teeth well-protected. Contact Lone Peak Dental to discuss your options. Oftentimes dental insurance will cover a portion of the cost. Our financial coordinator will be happy to assist you with any financial or insurance questions.