+1 (512) 863-7561
manager@hqdentaldesign.com
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3011 Dawn Dr STE 105, ,
Georgetown, TX 78628
Dental Sealants HQ Dental Georgetown, TX
Are you aware that bacteria love to explore the deep and dark crevices in your teeth, especially the back teeth that are often used for chewing? That’s right! These pesky little critters can wreak havoc on your oral health by causing cavities and tooth decay.
While regular brushing and flossing can help keep your teeth clean and healthy, they may not be enough to fully protect your pearly whites from bacterial attacks. That’s where dental sealants come in!
Dental sealants are a fantastic way to give your teeth an extra layer of defense against cavity-causing bacteria. This thin plastic coating is carefully applied to the chewing surfaces of your teeth, filling in any deep grooves or fissures that might trap food particles and bacteria.
At HQ Dental in Georgetown, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always available to answer any questions you may have about the procedure and to help you decide if dental sealants are right for you.
Don’t let bacteria win the battle for your oral health! Give us a call NOW at (512) 863-7561 to schedule an appointment and learn more about how dental sealants can protect your teeth and keep your smile healthy and bright.
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Ari Marco
HQ Dental team have done fantastic high quality routine and cosmetic work on my teeth as well as my families. There is no better dentist in Georgetown.
Tan Nguyen
HQ Dental is among the best dental clinics I have visited. I think their secret is the true care of patients.
Anastassia Moser
Everyone who worked in my mouth was extremely gentle, yet thorough. They’ve certainly found a patient for life
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants provide extra safeguard against tooth decay by attaching a thin layer of plastic onto the tooth surface. This protective coating helps prevent food particles from getting stuck in the crevices of the teeth and deters bacteria and acid from settling there. The American Dental Association reports that sealants can thwart up to 80% of cavities in the molars.
Dental sealants have been widely utilized for over 40 years and their usage continues to increase. Studies have demonstrated that children who do not receive sealants are more than twice as likely to develop cavities as those who have had the procedure. As a result, both the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advocate for the use of dental sealants in all children.
For over four decades, dental sealants have been effectively utilized and their usage continues to surge. It is recommended that children receive sealants on their permanent molars as soon as they emerge. Not only do dental sealants offer protective benefits, but they also possess long-lasting durability. The process of applying dental sealants is brief and painless. However, there may be some slight discomfort initially as the child adapts to having an extra layer of material on their back teeth.
Sealants can be beneficial for both children and adults, however, the earlier they are applied, the better the long-term results. It is recommended that children receive sealants on their permanent molars as soon as they erupt, which typically occurs around six years old for the first molars and around twelve years old for the second molars. By protecting teeth during a child's most cavity-prone years, sealants can help prevent future dental problems.
In addition to aiding permanent teeth, dental sealants may also be advantageous for baby teeth. As baby teeth play a crucial role in maintaining proper spacing for permanent teeth, it is essential to keep them healthy and in place until they fall out naturally. If considering sealants for a younger child, ensure that they are capable of keeping their mouth open for an extended period and sitting still during the procedure.
The Advantages and Disadvantages
Dental sealants offer several advantages, including their protective properties, durability, and longevity. Studies indicate that sealants can prevent up to 80% of cavities for up to two years after application and continue to protect against up to 50% of cavities for up to four years, with some sealants lasting up to nine years.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Children may require sealants to be reapplied if they become dislodged, chipped, or worn away. Biting into hard foods or consuming acidic foods excessively can cause sealants to chip or wear away, and it is essential to monitor what a child eats, particularly right after the sealant application. The application of sealants may temporarily alter a patient's bite, but this typically resolves on its own.
Regular dental visits are necessary to monitor and maintain sealants' condition and reapply them as required. Thus, sealants need to be regularly checked to ensure they are not wearing away.
The process of applying dental sealants
It is a simple and painless procedure. Firstly, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried. Then, an acidic gel is applied to the tooth surface to promote a robust bond between the tooth and the sealant. After rinsing off the gel and drying the teeth, the sealant is placed onto the chewing surface grooves. Finally, a curing light is used to harden the sealant onto the tooth.
During the procedure, we will examine the surface for any issues, and if present, the sealant may be touched up or reapplied. Once completed, we will rinse the newly sealed teeth clean. There are no known side effects associated with the procedure, and patients do not require any eating or drinking restrictions after treatment.
The Post-Sealant Experience
After the application of dental sealants, some children may experience mild discomfort as they adjust to the additional layer of material on their back teeth. This may cause the sensation of not being able to fit their back teeth together properly. However, this feeling should subside within a day or so, as the thin film of the sealant becomes integrated into the tooth.
Another common reaction is a strange taste immediately following the application of the sealant. In most cases, a thorough rinse of the mouth or a sip of a flavored drink can help alleviate the taste. Our dental team is available to address any concerns or issues that may arise after the application of sealants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a liquid material applied to the grooves and depressions on the surface of teeth, primarily molars, to create a plastic coating that bonds to the tooth’s surface. This coating protects teeth from lingering food and bacteria, ultimately helping to prevent decay.
Dental sealants can be beneficial for both children and adults, particularly those prone to tooth decay. However, they are typically recommended for children and teens to prevent cavities.
The cost of dental sealants varies depending on factors like location, insurance plan, and the number of treated teeth. Patients should contact their insurance provider for more information.
No, the process of applying dental sealants is painless and straightforward. A dental professional will brush the plastic coating onto the teeth, causing no discomfort. Dental sealants also prevent cavities that can cause tooth pain and damage.
With proper care, dental sealants can last for many years. During regular dental checkups, the dental team will check for any signs of wear and tear and reapply sealants as needed. If necessary, sealants can be replaced without difficulty.