Dental sealants: Cost-effective, comfortable, and clinically proven cavity-fighter
It is always best when Stephen Huber, DDS, keeps your mouth healthy and looking great by avoiding disease and other damaging oral conditions. In some cases, preventative services go beyond the “standard” check-up (exam and cleaning) and good oral care at home. Professional services can give decay-prone or vulnerable mouths a big health boost. Rest assured that all supplemental preventative services available at our Leawood, Kansas office are comfortable, cost-effective (and a good value), and conservative (for the least invasive treatment). Of course, services like dental sealants are also clinically sound and proven to be both effective and safe due to how Dr. Huber carefully selects each technology or technique found at our practice.
What are sealants?
Think of sealants as a protective coating against destructive plaque, food, and bacteria. This cocktail of harmful substances is responsible for the development of progressive dental decay. Without treatment, decay causes cavities and may eventually lead to tooth loss.
Do you place sealants on every tooth?
No. Sealants are applied to the back teeth. These teeth feature uneven chewing surfaces, which tend to trap food particles and other nasty substances. Due to this toothy truth, the premolars and molars at the very back of the mouth are vulnerable to decay. The CDC reports nine of every ten cavities develop in these hard-to-reach, grooved teeth.
What is the sealant made out of?
Sealants are made from a safe, clear, or tooth-colored resin material. This material comes in a liquid form, so Dr. Huber can effectively apply the sealant to the teeth using a small brush.
How do you apply the sealant?
Sealants can be introduced to decay-prone teeth easily and quickly during regular appointments. Before painting on the sealant, Dr. Huber will carefully clean the teeth and ensure they are dried. A conditioning liquid is also applied to ensure the strongest bond between the resin and the teeth. After the sealant has sufficiently penetrated the nooks and crannies of the teeth, Dr. Huber hardens it with a special light. The sealant prevents cavities and other complications of this destructive process by blocking out the bacteria and food debris that lead to tooth decay.
Are sealants for everyone?
Dental sealants are most often recommended for children. They are frequently recommended for permanent molars as soon as they come in, usually between the ages of 6 and 12 years. Stephen Huber, DDS’s office, might suggest dental sealants for adults whose teeth are prone to decay or have a history of it. Sealants and our extensive array of preventive dentistry services are crucial in our battle against cavities and other risks to maintaining your healthiest and best smile. Call (913) 349-9795 to schedule an appointment at our office in Leawood, KS.
