Sometimes, teeth are shaped in such a way that even regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash can’t fully clean out all of the crevices. Sealants provide an extra barrier against cavities and tooth decay by filling in these tiny spaces and making it harder for plaque and bacteria to stick.
Sealants are most often used on molars and premolars, which have deeper grooves than other teeth. They can be applied to children’s teeth as soon as they come in, or to adults’ teeth if there are early signs of decay. The procedure is quick and painless, and sealants can last for many years with proper care.
At the Dental Studio of South Tulsa, we believe that sealants are an important part of preventive dental care, and we’re dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible service from sealant application to maintenance.
When you and your family visit Dr. Wesley Black at the Dental Studio of South Tulsa for your regular cleaning, Dr. Black will inspect your teeth for any signs of decay or areas that look like they will be hard to keep clean. If he finds any areas that may benefit from sealants, he will discuss the option with you.
Sealants are made of clear or white plastic material, and they are applied directly to the teeth in a thin layer. This process requires no anesthesia (not even local) — just a thorough cleaning and drying of the tooth.
Once the sealant has been applied, it will harden and bond to the tooth, creating a barrier against bacteria and plaque. You’ll still have to brush your teeth as you usually would, but sealants will help prevent cavities from forming in the harder-to-reach areas.
Sealants can last for several years, but it’s important to have them checked regularly so that Dr. Black can make sure they are still intact and effective. In addition, Dr. Black may recommend that you avoid eating sticky candy or foods, as these may dislodge the sealants. With proper care, sealants can be a great way to protect your teeth against cavities and decay.
When it comes to sealants, it’s important to have a dentist who knows how to install them properly doing the procedure. Otherwise, the sealants may not adhere correctly to the teeth and could eventually come off without you realizing it, leaving your tooth exposed. Dr. Wesley Black at the Dental Studio of South Tulsa is an experienced dentist who has helped many patients protect their teeth with sealants.
He and his team are dedicated to providing quality care and personal attention to each of their patients. They will take the time to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you make the best decision for your oral health, whether that includes sealants or not.
To learn more about dental sealants, or to schedule an appointment for a consultation, contact us today. We look forward to helping you keep your smile healthy!