Did you know cavities are some of the most common dental health issues today? While the best way to prevent cavities is brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and limiting your intake of sugary foods, dental sealant treatments provide an added layer of protection.
Dental sealants are thin coatings applied on the chewing surface of the teeth and can prevent 80% of cavities for two years and 50% of cavities for up to four years. Dentists in Fort McMurray recommend sealant treatments to protect the teeth from germs and food that causes tooth decay.
What to expect with a dental sealant treatment
Sealant treatments in Fort McMurray are painless, non-invasive, and quick. They are designed to fill the pits and grooves of the teeth where bacteria and food debris can easily get stuck. During the procedure:
- The tooth is rinsed and dried
- The sealant is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth
- A light may be used to help harden the sealant
Dental sealants are painless treatments with no discomfort, recovery time, or anaesthesia needed. They are less expensive and easier to apply than cavity fillings. After sealant treatment, you may feel the sealant on your tongue for a short time, but eventually, this will go away.
Sealants are very subtle, usually transparent, white or slightly tinted in colour - you can’t see a sealant when you talk or smile. Dental sealants can last for years, and in the rare chance that they do fall off, missing sealants are easy to replace.
Why you would need dental sealants
All people, no matter what age, can benefit from sealants. However, they are more frequently used for young patients because cavities are a common issue amongst children and teens. Your dentist may recommend a dental sealant if:
- You or your child experience cavities more often
- The pits and grooves of a tooth are deep and trap debris
- You have sensitive teeth
- You generally want to prevent cavities
At Fort McMurray, we recommend dental sealants for children and teens between the ages of 6-14 and adults who frequently experience tooth decay.
Where to find dental sealant treatments in Fort McMurray
At Frankin Dental, we offer dental sealants on your molars using a clear, slightly tinted, or white colour depending on what’s best for your teeth. We use a glass ionomer or composite resin, a type of white filling, as a dental sealant treatment. Book an appointment with us today, and we’ll help protect your teeth against cavities.
