Regular brushing and flossing can do a lot to keep teeth clean and healthy, and free from decay. However sometimes it’s not enough. The chewing surfaces of your back teeth have tiny grooves and fissures that can be extremely tricky to clean. Often a toothbrush cannot reach right into the grooves to remove plaque and food debris. The solution is to ask your dentist in Toronto to apply dental sealants. These are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, sealing the tooth so it cannot decay. The procedure for dental sealants is quick and painless, and this simple technique can give your oral health a boost.
How Can Dental Sealants Help Me?
Dental sealants completely protect the vulnerable chewing surfaces of your teeth against decay. They can only be applied to healthy teeth, but sometimes it’s possible to cover-up the first signs of decay, preventing it from getting any worse.
Who Should Have Dental Sealants?
Children are more at risk of developing cavities, so dental sealants should be applied to their adult teeth as soon as they erupt. Adults with healthy back teeth can also benefit from dental sealants. They cannot be used if the tooth has already been filled.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
The dental sealant is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the tooth so it fills in all the grooves and fissures before hardening.
Why Aren’t Dental Sealants Used on All Tooth Surfaces?
The liquid bonds extremely well with the intricate chewing surfaces of your teeth, but will not stick to smooth surfaces. This is why dental sealants cannot be used on the front, back and the sides of your teeth.
How Long Will Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last anywhere between five and 10 years before they need to be reapplied. Your dentist in Toronto will check their condition at each appointment and will reapply them as necessary.
Are Dental Sealants the Best Way to Prevent Tooth Decay?
Dental sealants are just one solution, but they are not a substitute for daily brushing and flossing. In addition, you should be having regular checkups and eating a healthy diet.