Dental sealants

Keep your smile healthy and cavity-free with our dental sealants at Farmington Hills and Shelby Township

Young women receiving a dental sealant treatment. Assaf Dental

Dental sealants are a preventive measure used to protect your teeth from decay. Sealants are a thin, plastic coating that is applied to the grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). They act as a barrier, preventing food and bacteria from getting stuck in the grooves of the teeth, which can lead to the development of cavities. They are often recommended for children and adults who have a high risk of tooth decay. Sealants can last for several years, but they may need to be replaced if they chip or wear away. Assaf Dental offers dental sealants services in Farmington Hills and Shelby Township Michigan.

How long do Dental Sealants last?

Dental sealants typically last for several years, but the exact lifespan will vary depending on factors such as the type of sealant used, the location of the tooth, and the individual’s oral hygiene habits. In general, most sealants will last for several years before they need to be replaced. To ensure that your dental sealants last as long as possible, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and to have regular checkups with your dentist. Your dentist can evaluate the condition of your sealants and recommend if they need to be replaced.

Who needs Dental Sealants?

The grooves and pits in kids’ teeth are more likely to develop cavities, so dental sealants are usually recommended. Sealants can also be helpful for adults, especially if they have deep grooves or pits in their teeth or are at a high risk of decay. Talk to your dentist about whether dental sealants are right for you.

 

Dental Sealants

What are the risks to Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are generally considered safe and effective for preventing tooth decay. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks.

  • Allergic reactions to the materials used in the sealant
  • Choking or difficulty swallowing the sealant if it is accidentally ingested
  • Damage to the tooth if the sealant is improperly applied
  • Development of cavities under the sealant, if it wears away or is not properly maintained

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that dental sealants be applied by a trained and licensed dental professional to minimize the risk of complications. They also recommend regular check-ups to ensure that the sealants are still in good condition and effective at preventing tooth decay.

What are the benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants have several benefits, including:

  1. Prevention of tooth decay: Dental sealants help to prevent tooth decay by creating a barrier that keeps out food and bacteria. This can help to reduce the risk of cavities and other dental problems.
  2. Easy to apply: It’s easy to apply dental sealants in the dentist’s office and can be done quickly and comfortably.
  3. Cost-effective: Getting dental sealants is a cost-effective way to keep your teeth healthy.
  4. Long-lasting: Dental sealants can last for several years when applied properly.
  5. Safe: No harmful chemicals are used in dental sealants, and they’re BPA-free.
Dental sealants are safe. Breathing air exposes people to about 100 times more BPA than dental sealants. This is provieded by the ADA.
Image provided by American Dental Association

An explanation of how Dental Sealants are applied

Here’s how dental sealants are applied:

  1. Cleaning and drying the tooth: To prepare the tooth for the dental sealant, the dentist will clean and dry it.
  2. Applying the dental sealant: Using a brush or applicator, the dentist will apply dental sealant to the grooves and pits of the teeth.
  3. Curing the dental sealant: To ensure the sealant sticks to the tooth, the dentist uses a special light to cure or harden it.
  4. Checking the sealant: In order to make sure the sealant is applied properly, the dentist checks it for gaps or inconsistencies.
  5. Finishing the treatment: Afterwards, your dentist will give the patient instructions on how to care for the sealed tooth and may schedule a follow-up appointment to check the sealant.

Teeth whitening is another important part of dental care that can help protect your beautiful smile. Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that lightens and brightens the enamel on your teeth, making them look brighter and more attractive. It’s an easy way to make your teeth look more