If your child’s permanent teeth have erupted, then our dentist may recommend applying a dental sealant in order to protect their premolars and molars. What is a dental sealant? Keep reading to learn more.
What Is A Dental Sealant?
In short, a dental sealant is a plastic barrier applied over the pits and fissures in the chewing surface of the molars and premolars. These parts of the teeth are more vulnerable to decay because they are hard to clean and easily trap food and plaque. Because these teeth are susceptible to cavities, we protect them with a dental sealant.
How Do We Apply A Dental Sealant?
The application of a dental sealant is a simple, quick, and non-invasive procedure that may go something like this:
- We will thoroughly clean the teeth of food, plaque, and tartar (a hardened plaque that is also known as calculus).
- We will roughen the chewing surface of the molars and premolars with an acidic solution. We do this because it helps the sealant to adhere more easily to the teeth.
- We will rinse away the acidic solution and then dry the teeth.
- We will paint the sealant over the chewing surface of the teeth.
- We will harden the sealant with a curing light.
If you want your child to benefit from a dental sealant, then call McKinnon Dental today to schedule an appointment.