Dental Sealants West St. Paul, MN

WHAT ARE SEALANTS?

Sealants are used to protect your teeth from decay and deep staining. The back teeth often have deep grooves, pits and fissures that can be difficult to keep clean. This is why the posterior teeth, especially the chewing surfaces, are often susceptible to tooth decay. In order to fill in these ridges, we can apply a clear varnish to the back teeth.

WHY WOULD SEALANTS BE NEEDED?

If your back teeth have deep ridges and fissures, you are more susceptible to tooth decay. Even with careful brushing and flossing, you may have a lot of problems with the back teeth because of the way that they appear. Sealants are helpful in preventing tooth decay on the back teeth. They are ideal for adults and children alike who need an extra layer of protection against cavities.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SEALANTS?

To determine if you’d benefit from sealants, we can examine your back teeth. Most patients are good candidates for these clear coatings. However, if you have active cavities on the teeth, these will need to be treated prior to the sealant being placed. Most sealants can last for anywhere from one to three years depending on the amount of wear they receive.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE SEALANT PROCEDURE?

We will begin by drying all of the back teeth and cleaning them thoroughly. We then apply a clear liquid varnish to the chewing surfaces only and cure these sealants in place with a special dental light. This light hardens the sealants and ensures that they are protecting the grooves and ridges of the back teeth. You can and should still brush your teeth normally. We will be able to reapply the sealants as needed as they begin to show signs of wear. Sealants are great for kids who don’t always have the best brushing habits, but they’re just as helpful for adults as well.

Sealants

WHAT ARE SEALANTS?

WHY WOULD SEALANTS BE NEEDED?

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR SEALANTS?

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE SEALANT PROCEDURE?

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