How Long is the Dental Sealant Procedure?

Dental Sealant Benicia, CA

Brushing, flossing, using fluoride, and eating a healthy diet are all proven methods of fighting cavities. However, sometimes a dental sealants is needed to help prevent plaque from forming in the uneven pits and fissures that exist on teeth, particularly molars that are naturally rough and uneven. Sealants are a thin coating made of plastic or other protective material that covers the back teeth's chewing surfaces. A dental sealant serves as a sort of raincoat that protects the teeth from acidic bacteria that can cause cavities.

How are dental sealants applied?

The process of applying sealants is fast and painless, requiring only a few minutes of time with the dentist or dental hygienist. While the procedure may vary depending on the manufacturer and type of sealant, the basic procedures for the application of resin sealants are as follows.

Gathering the needed materials

The dentist or hygienist will assemble a tray with needed equipment, instruments, and supplies, which may include articulating paper, cotton rolls, a curing light, an explorer device, a mirror, pliers, a saliva ejector, a syringe, and a toothbrush. 

Cleaning and examining the tooth

Prior to applying the dental sealant, the tooth must be cleaned thoroughly. This may be completed with hydrogen peroxide, a toothbrush, or a jet. The surface of the teeth is rinsed carefully and examined to ensure all debris has been removed. The tooth must be free of existing decay prior to the application of the sealant; if decay is present on the tooth, the decision to use sealant should be reconsidered.

Isolating the surface of the tooth

For the proper placement and adherence of sealants, the tooth's surface must be free of existing saliva or debris. Dental sealant retention problems are usually the result of moisture or contamination from saliva. A rubber dam, cotton rolls, or dry field pads or kits may be used to prevent moisture from interfering with the application process.

Etching the tooth

Conditioning the tooth, also known as etching, is completed with the use of phosphoric acid, which kills bacteria and roughens the surface of the tooth to make it easier for the dental sealant to adhere when it is applied. This quick and painless process takes no more than 30 seconds to complete.

Rinsing and drying the tooth

The tooth's surface must be thoroughly rinsed with water to remove all traces of acid left from the etching process. Air and suction is used to completely dry the tooth. 

Applying and curing the primer and sealer

The sealant material may be placed directly on the tooth or on top of an optional primer to help with the adhesion. Some types of sealants must be mixed prior to applying. The sealant must sit for 10 to 20 seconds prior to curing. The curing process takes approximately 30 seconds with concentrated visible light, which is needed for the dental sealant material to set.

Conclusion

The process of applying dental sealant is simple and pain free. The dentist or hygienist only needs a few minutes to complete the application process for each tooth, and the resulting level of protection against cavities is well worth the time and effort.

If you are interested in learning more about the process or benefits of dental sealants, please contact our office today.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Sealants in Benicia, CA.

Recent Posts

Dental Sealants To Reduce Risk Of Tooth Decay

Dental Sealants are a great prevention tactic that many dentists recommend today. Your dentist wants your teeth to remain healthy and cavity-free for as long as possible. We all want to do whatever is necessary to maintain our natural teeth and keep our smiles bright. Our natural teeth are put through a lot if you think…

Are Dental Sealants Effective Against Tooth Decay?

Proper hygiene techniques and regular dental checkups are a great defense against tooth decay, but what if they are not quite enough? Enter dental sealants. Getting tooth sealants can also greatly assist in the tooth decay battle. Continue reading for more insight into this treatment option and how it can be an effective tool for…

How Dental Sealants Can Help A Damaged Tooth

Dental sealants are one great defense against tooth decay or cavities. Tooth decay is one of the more common problems that dentists encounter. According to the CDC, around 90% of adults over the age of 20 will experience a cavity in their lifetime, and many adults will experience more than one. Tooth decay often begins…

Are Dental Sealants Used To Treat Sensitive Teeth?

In many ways, dental sealants are similar to the tooth-colored material that dentists use to fill cavities. The treatment creates a protective barrier that reinforces teeth enamel. A dentist often uses dental sealant to prevent decay in vulnerable teeth, like the molars. The treatment can also reverse teeth sensitivity.Dental bonding is a popular material that…

Recent Posts

What You Need To Know About Partial Dentures

What You Need To Know About Partial Dentures

An article by GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare states that more than 18 million people wear partial dentures. Anyone who has been considering getting partials to improve their speech, ability to chew, and even their appearance is not alone. It helps to have the proper information beforehand, though. Partials are created from a wide variety of materials, each…

A Smile Makeover Can Improve Your Self Esteem

A Smile Makeover Can Improve Your Self-Esteem

A smile makeover often leads to increased self-esteem and confidence. Having a radiant, healthy smile also gives you increased success during professional and personal interactions. People with great smiles are often perceived as attractive and successful, while those with unsightly smiles are sometimes viewed as unclean and unsuccessful. A smile makeover is a combination of…