Orchard Dental Care offers patients dental sealants in Centennial, CO. This restorative treatment is a cost-effective method for preventing tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. It’s a quick, easy, and affordable way to enhance and preserve dental health.
What are Dental Sealants?
Dental or tooth sealants form a protective coating over the tooth enamel. They’re made of plastic and fit tightly against the teeth. Teeth naturally feel smooth, but they’re actually not. Magnification reveals numerous small spaces and grooves on the surface of the enamel.
Bacteria accumulate in these spaces and grooves and are difficult to remove, even with regular brushing. This is problematic. The toothbrush doesn’t reach every surface of the teeth. It also doesn’t remove all of the particles between the teeth. Food trapped between the teeth provides an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
Unless a patient is scrupulous with flossing, the bacteria caught in these spaces (along with the acidity in the mouth) can cause tooth decay. Dental sealants provide a layer of protection against bacteria and acidity.
Why Do Dentists Use Sealants?
Dr. Devin Rentz typically uses sealants on the molars and some of the front teeth. The primary goal is to provide protection for those areas of the tooth that brushing might miss.
The dentist will typically apply the sealant to the chewing surface of the tooth. This action protects the surface from decay and acts as a complementary treatment to fluoridation.
Dentists opt for this treatment when their patients are at high risk of developing tooth decay. The procedure is often used to treat children but will work in patients of all ages.
When Should Patients Consider Asking About Sealants?
Sealants aren’t a quick and easy fix. While they’re a useful adjunct to fluoridation, they’re not a replacement for it. They’re also not a substitute for good dental hygiene.
Patients may ask Dr. Rentz about sealants. He’ll evaluate whether or not they’re good candidates for the procedure. In cases where it’s difficult for a patient to practice good dental hygiene, it might be worth discussing having the teeth sealed.
What Does the Process Entail?
The procedure is relatively simple. Dr. Rentz or one of their highly trained technicians apply the sealant and set it. It’s a quick solution, and there’s no drilling involved.
The coating lasts between five and ten years. Most insurers will fully cover the procedure in children up to 14 years old. Many insurers will pay for the procedure later in life, but they might not cover the full amount.
Sealants measure up well in relation to cost, healing, and comfort. Other restorative treatments like root canals or cosmetic procedures (such as veneers) cost significantly more and entail more invasive procedures.
Contact Orchard Dental Care Today and Protect That Toothy Grin
Patients interested in dental sealants may schedule an appointment with Dr. Rentz by using the website or by calling in.