A dental sealant is a thin, protective coating usually made from plastic or some other kind of polymer that adheres to the chewing surface of your back teeth. By covering your molars where most cavities occur, dental sealants reduce the risk of developing cavities or tooth decay.
While there will never be a substitute for brushing and flossing after every meal, sealants like this are an excellent preventative measure. When combined with our other general dentistry services here at Supreme Dentistry, clients find they have all the tools they need to keep their smiles healthy and bright.
What Are Dental Sealants Made Of?
The materials for dental sealants can be divided into two categories–glass ionomers and composite resin. The distinction between these two types of materials is mostly seen by patients through the kind of reaction that takes place when they are put in their mouth. Glass ionomers undergo an acid-base reaction and composite resins set through a polymerization reaction initiated by a dental curing light. There is little practical difference between the two, but each has certain properties.
For instance, glass ionomer sealants experience less shrinkage on setting, offer a high fluoride release, have a low thermal expansion, are stiffer, and high susceptibility to desiccation (or drying out). Composite resin shrinks more on setting, offers less fluoride release, expands less, has higher tensile strength, and a lower risk of desiccation. When it comes to deciding which type of sealant is right for you, make sure you talk with your dentist to learn more details and get their recommendation.
How Sealants Work
The procedure for dental sealants is quick and painless. Usually, the first step is a thorough teeth cleaning. Your teeth are then dried before an acidic gel is placed on your teeth. The gel creates a good bonding surface for your tooth and the sealant material you choose. This gel roughs up your tooth surface so that a strong bond will form between your tooth and the sealant. In no time at all, the gel is rinsed off, your teeth are dried once again, and the sealant is applied. Once placed on the teeth in liquid form, your dentist uses a soft light to activate it to harden or cure chemically. Once done, a sealant will usually last for several years before a new coat needs to be reapplied. As you go in for regular checkups, your Supreme Dentistry dentist will monitor their condition.
Supreme Dentistry’s Other General Dental Services
At Supreme Dentistry, our experts will help you support your oral health. They will combine the latest techniques and tools to keep your smile as beautiful and healthy as possible. Our Houston, Texas dentist’s office offers a range of general, family, and cosmetic dental services to our patients. A few of our services include:
- Teeth cleanings: Biannual teeth cleanings make sure that your teeth are healthy and that they look as nice as possible. They can also ensure that your gums are healthy and not at risk for periodontal disease.
- Veneers: If you don’t like the appearance or shape of your teeth, dental veneers are a good choice for you. These thin wafers lie on top of your natural teeth and improve the look of your teeth.
- Teeth whitening: Our teeth lose the pearly white glow due to staining from coffee and tea. With teeth whitening, we give you back the sparkling appearance you’ve lost.
- Dental fillings: If you have cavities, leaving them open can be dangerous for your health. With dental fillings, we can clean out the infection and fill the tooth to ensure that it does not return.
If you need dental treatments or emergency dental services in Houston, Texas, contact Supreme Dentistry today at 844.966.2333.
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