Dental Sealants in Murfreesboro, TN

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars) to protect them from cavities and decay. These sealants act as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from accumulating in the deep grooves and pits of the teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop. At Stonegate Family Dentistry, we specialize in providing dental sealants to help protect your teeth from tooth decay and cavity formation. Here's everything you need to know about dental sealants:

What Are Dental Sealants?

A dental sealant is a thin coating, generally made of resin or polymer. They are applied by the dentist in 37129 to the chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars to ensure additional dental protection. The deep fissures and pits on these surfaces do not get cleaned properly since the toothbrush's bristles may not be able to reach the food and plaque stuck within these deep grooves. These leftover food particles can cause the accumulation of bacteria and acids in your mouth leading to the erosion of the tooth's enamel and the formation of cavities.

Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?

• Children and Teens:Dental sealants are most commonly applied to the permanent molars and premolars of children and teenagers as soon as these teeth erupt, usually between the ages of 6 and 14. Sealants can help protect these newly erupted teeth during the cavity-prone years of childhood and adolescence.
• Adults:While sealants are often associated with pediatric dentistry, adults who are at high risk of developing cavities or have deep grooves in their teeth may also benefit from sealant treatment to prevent decay.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants prevent cavities and tooth decay by filling up the deep grooves and pits to help ease brushing. Consequently, these sealants should be checked periodically to ensure that they are still correctly intact and doing their job. If required, we can reapply a sealant for your dental protection and reduce the chances of needing any further restorative procedure should cavities or other oral issues arise. Call us to learn more.

What Is the Procedure for Dental Sealants?

The application of a dental sealant involves a painless and straightforward procedure, and it requires only a few minutes per tooth. The first step is to meticulously clean the tooth and ensure that there is no decay that may need a filling. Once the tooth has been cleaned, the tooth is smeared with a mild acid solution to help the sealant bond well with the tooth. The sealant is then applied to the tooth's grooves and, depending on the material used, the sealant will either harden naturally or by using a specialized light.

Longevity and Maintenance:

• Sealants can last for several years with proper care and maintenance. Your dentist in Murfreesboro TN will check the sealants during regular dental check-ups and may recommend reapplication if they show signs of wear or damage.
• Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits, are essential for maintaining the effectiveness of dental sealants and preventing cavities.

Our Stonegate Family Dentistry team looks forward to meeting with you and developing a customized plan to meet your individual needs. Call us today at (615) 624-6919 or request an appointment online.