You know that you need to maintain an excellent oral hygiene routine to keep your mouth in good health. This includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing using a mouthwash. However, there is another step that can be taken to protect your smile from harm in the future. When you hear about dental sealants, it is usually related to children’s dentistry, but the truth is that they can benefit adults as well. They are a thin coat that is painted on the chewing surface of the teeth to protect them. Here are some of the things that dental sealants do.
Decreases Tooth Decay
Dental sealants can last up to a decade with proper maintenance. Sealants are a great option for any adult who wants to reduce their risk of tooth decay. Once the enamel on your teeth is gone, it doesn’t grow back. They are a preventive steps that can keep you from needing costly dental procedures in the future as a result of potential plaque buildup or tooth decay.
Prevents Cavities
If you have early signs of decay, or a very small cavity, applying a sealant over it can prevent further damage to the tooth. Since dental sealants are clear, your dentist will be able to keep an eye on the tooth and ensure that the sealant is working properly. Ultimately, having sealants can help you to avoid cavities and tooth infections in the future.
Combats Aging
Did you know that as you get older, you are more likely to experience tooth decay? This is because the protective qualities of your gums and teeth have decreased when compared to how they were when you were a child. The biochemistry of your saliva and teeth age and change over your life. Sealants can help to prevent oral health issues, plus they have proven to be both safe and effective.
Enhance Your Appearance
Sealants make your brushing routine much easier, and they can enhance your smile. When there are fewer food particles in the back crevices of your mouth, bacteria and other buildups have less of a chance of hiding and causing both decay and stains. Less discoloration and plaque buildups mean healthier, whiter teeth that you will be proud to show off.
Just because you aren’t a child doesn’t mean that you won’t benefit from dental sealants. Ask your dentist if they would be a good option for preserving your smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Sean Brown is a friendly and knowledgeable dentist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Buffalo. He enjoys helping patients protect their oral health and feel confident in their smiles through advanced treatments like Invisalign. If you’re ready to improve your quality of life, you’re in good hands. Call (215) 348-2224 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Sean Brown DDS or visit our website to request an appointment online.