The Role of Cavity Prevention Fillings in Maintaining a Healthy Smile

When you or your child has a cavity, the decayed tissue has to be removed, and a filling must be placed so you can save the tooth. But what if you could prevent cavities altogether? As it turns out, Dr. Yvonne Szyperski has an option for you that can reduce cavity risk for you or your child by up to 80%. Let’s explore dental sealants and their role in preventing cavities. 

Understanding Cavity Prevention Fillings

The term can be confusing. Cavity prevention fillings are technically pit and fissure sealants applied to molars to prevent cavities. Dental sealants can be seen as a combination of traditional sealants and fillings. To seal a tooth, Dr. Szyperski applies a thin composite resin layer to the chewing surface of the premolars and molars. The composite resin prevents decay-causing bacteria from damaging the enamel and seals the tooth. 

Who Needs Preventative Fillings 

Most people can benefit from dental sealants, particularly children and many adults. Most dentists recommend preventative fillings if your molars have fissures, deep grooves, or pits. Molars need these features because they help grind and crush food. However, they also make teeth prone to cavities. Pits and fissures are difficult to clean, so acid, bacteria, and food particles can build up in them and result in cavities. 

An Investment That Pays Dividends

Repairing one cavity in your child’s teeth can far exceed the cost of sealant treatment. Equally important, you can protect your child’s tooth and help them avoid the inconvenience of having to get a filling or experience discomfort from a toothache. Many dental insurance plans may cover this treatment. 

A Quick and Painless Solution

When your child gets dental sealants on their teeth, there is no need for sedation or dental anesthetic. Before applying the sealants, your child will receive professional teeth cleaning to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar. This is necessary so nothing gets stuck under the sealant. 

The Dental Sealant Process

Dr. Szyperski follows a straightforward process for applying dental sealants to your child’s teeth.

1. The surfaces of the molars are cleaned and thoroughly dried.
2. Dr. Szyperski applies a mild etching gel to ensure the sealant has good adhesion. 
3. The gel is rinsed off, and your child’s teeth are dried again.
4. The dental sealant is applied. 
5. The sealant is hardened and bonded with a blue-spectrum light. 

Not Just for Kids

Adults get cavities, too. People who smoke or have busy schedules that impact oral hygiene are particularly at risk of developing a cavity or tooth decay. The good news is that the same sealants that protect your child’s teeth can also protect yours. 

Your Best Option for Cavity Prevention Filling in Petaluma, CA

Dr. Yvonne Szyperski and the staff at North Bay Smiles in Petaluma, California, offer dental sealants that can reduce tooth decay risk for you or your child. Call us today at (707) 306-8001 or use our online form to request an appointment. 

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