The Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children and Adults at Beam Dental, Broken Arrow

At Beam Dental in Broken Arrow, OK, we prioritize preventative care to ensure lasting oral health for all our patients. One of the important preventive measures we offer is dental sealants, which provide a protective barrier against tooth decay, especially for children and teenagers. Still, many people are unaware of the benefits and availability of dental sealants for both children and adults. Through this informative guide, we seek to shed valuable light on the significance, benefits, and application of dental sealants for people of all ages.

Our primary goal is to help you make informed decisions regarding your dental care and support you in maintaining optimal oral health for you and your family. With the guidance and expertise of the professional team at Beam Dental, Broken Arrow, OK, you can take the necessary preventative measures, such as dental sealants, to ensure a healthy, radiant smile for years to come.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings commonly made of a plastic or resin material applied to the chewing surfaces of permanent molars and premolars. The primary purpose of dental sealants is to prevent tooth decay by creating a barrier against food particles and bacteria that can lead to the formation of cavities. Sealants are particularly effective in shielding the grooves and fissures of teeth where a toothbrush might not effectively reach, further safeguarding your oral health.

Benefits of Dental Sealants for Children and Adults

Dental sealants offer various advantages for patients of all ages, including:

1. Preventing Tooth Decay and Cavities – Acting as a barrier, dental sealants protect tooth enamel from acids and bacteria that can cause tooth decay and cavities.

2. Long-Lasting Protection – With proper care, dental sealants can provide enduring protection against tooth decay for several years, facilitating lasting oral health.

3. Cost-Effectiveness – Investing in dental sealants can save money in the long run by reducing the need for costly restorative treatments such as fillings or crowns resulting from tooth decay.

4. Maintaining Oral Health at Different Life Stages – Dental sealants are suitable for both children and adults, providing protection across various stages of life.

While dental sealants' primary focus is on children and adolescents with newly erupted permanent teeth, adults with healthy teeth can also benefit from sealant application. It is important to note that dental sealants cannot be applied to teeth with existing fillings or significant decay. Therefore, early preventive intervention is often beneficial.

The Dental Sealant Procedure

Applying dental sealants is a straightforward, non-invasive process that can be completed during a routine dental appointment. The dental sealant procedure generally includes the following steps:

1. Tooth Cleaning – The teeth receiving sealants will be thoroughly cleaned and dried to remove any plaque, debris, and food particles.

2. Etching the Tooth Surface – To enhance sealant adhesion, an etching solution is applied to the teeth' chewing surfaces, which creates a rougher surface for better bonding.

3. Applying the Dental Sealant – The dental professional will then apply the sealant material onto the teeth's grooves and fissures, ensuring full coverage.

4. Curing the Dental Sealant – Once the sealant has been correctly placed, a special curing light may be used to harden the material, creating a strong and durable protective barrier.

Longevity and Care of Dental Sealants

With proper care and maintenance, dental sealants can last for several years, providing ongoing protection against tooth decay. To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of dental sealants, consider the following best practices:

1. Regular Dental Checkups – Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings will allow your dental professional to monitor the condition of your sealants, detect any early signs of wear, and replace or repair sealants as needed.

2. Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene – Ensuring proper oral hygiene through daily brushing and flossing will contribute to the overall longevity and effectiveness of dental sealants.

3. Avoiding Hard and Sticky Foods – Chewing on hard food items such as ice or hard candies and sticky foods like caramel can exert pressure or cause damage to dental sealants.

When to Consider Dental Sealants for Yourself or Your Child

While dental sealants are most often recommended for children around the ages of 6 and 12, adults with healthy molar and premolar teeth can also benefit from this preventive measure. If your child has newly erupted permanent teeth or you're an adult with healthy teeth prone to cavities, consider discussing the possibility of dental sealants with your dental professional at Beam Dental in Broken Arrow, OK.

It is essential to remember that dental sealants serve as an additional preventive measure, not a substitute for regular oral care. Maintaining good oral hygiene through daily brushing and flossing, coupled with routine dental checkups, is crucial for preserving oral health and ensuring the effectiveness of dental sealants.

Safeguard Your Oral Health with Dental Sealants at Beam Dental, Broken Arrow, OK

Dental sealants are an excellent preventive measure in the ongoing pursuit of optimal oral health for both children and adults. The experienced team at Beam Dental in Broken Arrow, OK, is dedicated to providing the highest quality dental care, including dental sealant application, to safeguard your smile for years to come. 

Embrace a proactive approach to dental care by considering dental sealants from Beam Dental for you or your family members and enjoy the confidence of a healthy, radiant smile! Book your appointment with our family dentist in Broken Arrow to learn more about dental sealants and other services available!