Reduce risk of cavities with dental sealants in Petaluma, CA

You can reduce your child’s risk of developing tooth decay in molars (the most common spot for cavities) by 80 percent, with a painless treatment that provides benefits for several years. The technique is dental sealants. Dr. Yvonne Szyperski at North Bay Smiles in Petaluma, CA recommends taking advantage of it as soon as your child’s permanent molars begin to come in, at about age six.

Why Petaluma, CA dentist recommends dental sealants

Molars are the large teeth at the back of the mouth. They have grooves on the top chewing surface of the teeth where plaque easily collects and cavities can form. Sealants are placed in this area of the tooth to prevent cavities. Contours tend to trap particles of food, creating an ideal environment for oral bacteria. As these organisms multiply, they produce acids that eat holes in enamel, eventually developing into cavities.

Sealant for kid’s teeth is a transparent, BPA-safe plastic that is painted onto molars. The thin liquid flows into tiny fissures and pits where it quickly bonds with tooth enamel as it dries. This durable, protective shield is an effective defense against tooth decay, supplementing daily brushing and flossing and regular professional teeth cleaning.

Dental sealants for kids can also stop the earliest signs of decay – tiny pinholes in enamel – from becoming cavities. As an alternative, the doctor may seal very small areas of enamel erosion with tooth-colored resin material to halt progression of decay.

Though sealant eventually wears off, it can last about a decade and is easily re-applied for renewed protection.

What about sealants for adults?

Grown-ups get cavities, too. Especially smokers and those who sometimes find their schedules too busy for dependable home oral hygiene.

Sealing teeth to prevent cavities is a quick and painless addition to a routine checkup appointment:

  • Molar surfaces are cleaned and dried.
  • A mild etching gel is applied to ensure good adhesion.
  • The gel is rinsed, and teeth are again dried.
  • Sealant is applied.
  • A blue spectrum light bonds and hardens the sealant.

The cost of repairing even one cavity can exceed the expense of sealant treatment. Plus, you avoid the discomfort of a toothache and the inconvenience of getting a filling. Some dental insurance plans cover this prophylactic treatment.

Prevent teeth decay with dental sealants. Call North Bay Smiles in Petaluma, CA at (707) 306-8001. We welcome families from Petaluma, Rohnert Park, Cotati, Santa Rosa, Novato, and surrounding CA communities.