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How Can Tooth Sealants Help My Child?

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What are Tooth Sealants?
How are Tooth Sealants Applied?
Can Tooth Sealants Help Teeth with Fillings?

Cavities frequently develop on the chewing surfaces of adult premolars and molars. These are the large back teeth that grind up food and which have lots of fissures, easily trapping food and bacteria. Using tooth sealants is a cost-effective and non-invasive way to protect these more vulnerable tooth surfaces and there is no need for anaesthetic.

What are Tooth Sealants?

Tooth sealants are made from a flowable resin material that when painted onto clean teeth quickly hardens to form a strong, smooth and easy-to-clean surface. This prevents bacteria from causing cavities in these tooth surfaces. Once in place, tooth sealants should last for years but our dentists will regularly check their condition and can replace them if needed.

How are Tooth Sealants Applied?

Your child’s teeth will be cleaned and lightly etched as this improves the bond between the tooth and the sealant. Next, the teeth are dried and the sealant is applied to the tooth surfaces. It is soon hardened with a special light.

Can Tooth Sealants Help Teeth with Fillings?

Tooth sealants can only be applied to healthy teeth that don’t have any cavities or fillings. Here at Apple Dental, we strongly suggest applying dental sealants soon after the adult back teeth emerge.