Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be scary, especially when you are getting a treatment that helps prevent cavities before they even start. If you are looking for a dentist in North Edmonton, you might hear them talk about dental sealants. A sealant is like a tiny raincoat for your tooth. It is a thin, protective coating that covers the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Knowing the step-by-step dental sealant procedure can help you or your child feel much more relaxed during the visit.
Why are sealants important?
Our back teeth, called molars, have deep grooves and bumps. These are great for grinding up food, but they are also perfect hiding spots for tiny pieces of sugar and bacteria. Sometimes, toothbrush bristles are too thick to reach the bottom of these grooves. A sealant fills those gaps so food slides right off.
Is it a common treatment?
Yes, many parents ask, “Are dental sealants safe for kids?” The answer is a big yes. They are one of the best ways to protect permanent teeth as soon as they grow in. Adults who don’t have fillings in their molars can also get them to keep their teeth strong. Getting dental sealants in North Edmonton is a very popular choice for families who want to avoid the drill later on.
The Step-by-Step Procedure
The best part about getting sealants is that there are no needles and no drilling. It is a very gentle process that is over before you know it.
Step 1: Cleaning the Tooth
The first thing the dental team does is give the tooth a professional cleaning. They need to make sure there is no food or plaque trapped in the grooves. If the tooth isn’t perfectly clean, the sealant won’t stick properly.
Step 2: Drying and Prepping
After cleaning, the tooth is dried. The dentist will put a special gel on the chewing surface for a few seconds. This gel “roughens up” the surface just a tiny bit—you can’t see it or feel it, but it helps the sealant bond tightly to the tooth. Then, the tooth is rinsed and dried again.
Step 3: Applying the Sealant
Now comes the main part. The dentist paints the liquid sealant onto the tooth enamel. It flows into all the deep nooks and crannies. To make it hard, a special blue “curing light” is held over the tooth for about 30 seconds.
Time and Comfort
Many people wonder, ” How long does a dental sealant appointment take?” Usually, it takes only a few minutes per tooth. If you are getting all your back molars done, you will likely be in and out of the chair in less than half an hour.
How it feels afterward
Once the light hardens the sealant, it becomes a hard, plastic-like shield. You might feel a tiny bump with your tongue for a few hours, but as soon as you eat a meal, it flattens out and feels completely natural. You won’t even know it’s there! If you search for dental sealants near you, you will find that it is one of the quickest and easiest appointments you can have.
Keeping Your Shield Strong
Even though sealants are tough, you still need to take care of them. You should continue to brush and floss just like normal. During your regular check-ups, the dentist near you will look at the sealants to make sure they aren’t chipped or worn down. If a piece does go missing, it is very easy for the doctor to add a little more to patch it up.
A Healthier Future for Your Teeth
Taking a few minutes today to protect your teeth can save you from a lot of trouble in the future. Sealants are a simple, painless way to make sure your smile stays healthy and cavity-free. It is much easier to prevent a hole in your tooth than it is to fix one later!
At Beverly Heights Dental, our priority is to help you keep your natural smile for as long as possible. Our cheerful team works great with kids and adults! We make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable in the chair. The best thing you can give for your teeth is preventative care, we believe.
Stop by and let us help keep your smile shining with sealants that protect your family. We can help you discover all there is to know!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting dental sealants hurt?
Not at all! There is no drilling or numbing required. The process is simply cleaning the tooth and painting on the liquid coating. Most people find it to be one of the easiest dental visits they have ever had.
Can you eat right after the appointment?
Yes, you can eat and drink as soon as you leave. Because the dentist uses a special light to harden the sealant instantly, it is completely set by the time you walk out the door.
How many years do sealants last?
Sealants can protect teeth for up to 9 years. However, they can sometimes chip or wear down over time. Your dentist will check them during your regular visits to see if any small repairs are needed.
Who should get dental sealants?
Children and teenagers are the most common candidates because sealants protect their new adult molars. However, adults who do not have decay or fillings in their back teeth can also benefit from this extra layer of protection.
