Protect Your Teeth with Dental Sealants
Tooth decay is a common oral health issue affecting patients of all ages. While brushing and flossing are essential for oral hygiene, they can't eliminate all the bacteria that can harm your teeth. Dental sealants provide an extra layer of protection for your molars, significantly reducing the risk of cavities.
At Southern Smiles, we can apply these protective coatings to help prevent decay and other dental issues. Our friendly Jacksonville, FL, dental team will answer any questions you have and guide you through the process, ensuring a positive experience from start to finish. Call today at 904-389-3451 to learn more about the long-term oral health benefits of dental sealants.
Why Choose Southern Smiles for Dental Sealants?
At Southern Smiles, we prioritize building lasting and comfortable relationships with our patients from their very first visit. Our mission is to provide exceptional dentistry services by listening to our patients, earning their trust, and exceeding their expectations. We strive to create a compassionate and professional environment, continually improving every aspect of our practice.
For a seamless experience, we offer patients the ability to prepare ahead by completing new patient forms. Don’t worry about completing paperwork at our office. We want to see you as soon as possible.
Our dedicated staff ensures a welcoming and stress-free visit, addressing any dental concerns with care and expertise. Join the Southern Smiles family for quality dental care and a commitment to your oral health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of composite resin that we apply to the surfaces of your teeth. Typically used on molars and premolars, these back teeth are more prone to decay due to their role in chewing and their harder-to-reach location. Sealants act as a barrier, protecting your teeth from food particles and bacteria for up to two years.
Before applying the sealants, we thoroughly clean your teeth and use a special solution to ensure the sealants adhere properly. The sealant is then painted onto the tooth surface and hardened with a UV light, providing protection against up to 80% of cavities. Regular dental visits will help determine when it's time for a touch-up or replacement.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Sealants are beneficial for both children and adults. Children should receive sealants as soon as their molars and premolars emerge, while adults can also benefit from sealants to protect their permanent teeth.
Dental sealants are recommended for:
- Children and Teenagers: As their permanent molars and premolars come in.
- Adults with Deep Fissures: Those with deep pits and fissures in their molars and premolars.
- Individuals at High Risk of Cavities: Due to factors like a history of tooth decay, poor oral hygiene, or a diet high in sugary foods.
- Individuals With Orthodontic Appliances: To protect teeth during orthodontic treatment.
- Special Needs Patients: To reduce the risk of cavities in those with developmental or cognitive disabilities.
- Patients With Dental Anxiety: To minimize the need for more invasive treatments.
To schedule an appointment with our Jacksonville dentist, contact our dental practice today at 904-389-3451.
Types of Dental Sealants
Resin-Based Sealants
The most common type, resin-based sealants, are made from a liquid resin material hardened with a curing light. These are tooth-colored and blend well with your natural teeth.
Glass Ionomer Sealants
Glass ionomer sealants are a combination of acrylic and glass powders. They release fluoride over time, which helps strengthen the teeth and provide additional protection against cavities.
Compomer Sealants
A hybrid of composite resin and glass ionomer materials, compomer sealants offer aesthetics, fluoride release, and durability.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants create a protective barrier on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, reducing the risk of cavities.
- Cost-Effective: Applying dental sealants is less expensive than treating cavities. It can help you avoid the costs associated with dental fillings, crowns, or root canals.
- Pain-Free: The sealant process is painless and non-invasive.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can last for several years, providing continuous protection against decay.
- Improved Oral Hygiene: Sealants create a smoother surface on the teeth, making it easier to clean through regular brushing and reducing plaque buildup.
- Prevention of Dental Anxiety: For children, sealants can reduce the need for more invasive treatments, making dental visits less stressful.
The Dental Sealant Process
The application of dental sealants involves:
- Cleaning the teeth
- Drying them thoroughly
- Isolating them from moisture
- Etching the tooth surfaces
- Applying the sealant material
- Using a curing light to harden the sealant
This quick and painless process provides long-lasting protection against dental caries, especially for children and teenagers.
Costs of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a relatively inexpensive dental treatment, costing around $30 to $40 per tooth. Factors affecting the total cost include your location, the number of teeth treated, and insurance coverage.
We want everyone to have access to preventive care, which is why we also offer payment plans. Your oral health doesn’t need to be a source of financial distress. Our Jacksonville team will be happy to help set up a plan that works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental sealants last?
Sealants can last several years, often up to five to ten years, depending on factors like wear and tear and oral hygiene practices.
Is the application of dental sealants painful?
No, the application is painless and non-invasive, with no need for dental anesthesia or drilling.
Interested in Dental Sealants in Jacksonville, FL? Call Today!
Ensuring your molars and premolars are protected from cavities with dental sealants from Southern Smiles can be a vital step in maintaining your oral health. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with the highest quality of care, making the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Whether you’re a parent looking to protect your child’s teeth or an adult seeking extra protection for your own, we are ready to help.
