October 7, 2016
Brushing and flossing are the best ways to help prevent cavities, but it’s not always easy to clean every nook and cranny of your teeth – especially those back teeth you use to chew (called molars). Molars are rough, uneven and a favorite place for leftover food and cavity-causing bacteria to hide.
Still, there’s another safety net to help keep those teeth clean. It’s called a sealant, and it is a thin, protective coating (made from plastic or other dental materials) that adheres to the chewing surface of your back teeth. They’re no substitute for brushing and flossing, but they can keep cavities from forming and may even stop early stages of decay from becoming a full-blown cavity. In fact, sealants have been shown to reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars.
How Do Sealants Work?
Think of them as raincoats for your teeth. When the cavity-causing bacteria that live in everyone’s mouth meet leftover food particles, they produce acids that can create holes in teeth. These holes are cavities. After sealant has been applied it keeps those bits of food out and stops bacteria and acid from settling on your teeth—just like a raincoat keeps you clean and dry during a storm.
Who Can Get Sealants?
Children and adults can benefit from sealants, but the earlier you get them, the better. Your first molars appear around age 6, and second molars break through around age 12. Sealing these teeth as soon as they come through can keep them cavity-free from the start, which helps save time and money in the long run. Ask your dentist if sealants are a good option for you and your family.
How Are Sealants Applied?
It’s a quick and painless process. Your dentist will clean and dry your tooth before placing an acidic gel on your teeth. This gel roughs up your tooth surface so a strong bond will form between your tooth and the sealant. After a few seconds, your dentist will rinse off the gel and dry your tooth once again before applying the sealant onto the grooves of your tooth. Your dentist in Hollywood, FL will then use a special blue light to harden the sealant.
Can Sealants Be Placed Over Cavities?
Sealants can be used over areas of early decay to prevent further damage to your tooth. Because some sealants are clear, your dentist can keep an eye on the tooth to make sure the sealant is doing its job.
Are There Any Side Effects?
With the exception of an allergy that may exist, there are no known side effects from sealants.
Is There BPA In Sealants?
Yes, there is a tiny amount of BPA in sealants but not enough to cause you or a loved one any harm. In fact, you get more exposure to BPA by simply touching a receipt, using cosmetics or coming in contact with dust.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants will often last for several years before they need to be reapplied. During your regular dental visit, your dentist will check the condition of the sealant and can reapply them as needed.
Are Sealants Covered By Dental Plans?
Some plans do cover sealants, so call your dental benefit company to find out what kind of coverage you have.
mouthhealthy.org
Testimonials
Every time I visit its always a pleasant experience, the employees are welcoming and the service is outstanding. Its the only dentist i recommend to my friends and family
Alejandro Figueredo
The best confortable dental officeHighly recommendedVery nice and professional Doctor and assistant
62511aveful
Thank you Dr. Gorbatov for the great experience, your gentle touch and quality work you have done on my teeth. I have been very pleased with your professional, yet personable...
Irina D. (Port Orange, FL)
Dr. Gorbatov was very thorough and went over all concerns I had (I'm not really a fan of the dentist). He is definitely the nicest Dentist I have ever been...
Sofia Rodriguez (Hallandale Beach, FL)
I had an amazing experience with Dr Gorbatov and his excellent staff. I went to him for a second opinion and he told me I did not need any work...
James Borelli
A crown fell out and needed to be cemented back in place. Called this morning and left message. Returned call and got an appointment 1.5 hour later.Friendly staff and everything...
Stephen Waldman
This dentist and his staff went way above and beyond to not only remedy my issue with my teeth but made me feel extremely comfortable as well as giving me...
George Cavros
Absolutely loved the staff and doctor! Right when you walk through the door they greet you with such a big smile and kindness. Thank you doctor I will never stop...
epasco12
I am very happy that i got to the Dr.Gorbatov, it was my dream to get such a nice smile like i have now.He is professional in his job.Everything was...