Will dental sealants change the tooth?

Unfortunately, even the best brushing and flossing might not prevent all cavities. Teeth can have deep grooves and crevices that can be difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss. 

To help solve this problem, some people opt for dental sealants. Sealants are an easy treatment that protects teeth from cavities and decay without significantly changing the shape and color of the tooth. They reinforce the tooth’s enamel by creating a thin barrier of resin that shields it from acids and bacteria in the mouth. 

Benefits of Sealants

Sealants help preserve oral health without changing the tooth and are beneficial because:

• They are nearly undetectable. They often blend in with the other teeth because they are made of clear or tooth-colored resin. 

• The resin is applied in a thin layer that doesn’t alter the tooth’s shape. 

• Sealants are easy to apply. The process is non-invasive and can take only minutes. 

Sealant Application

Sealants are typically applied to the chewing surface of the premolars and molars towards the back of the mouth. When a dentist first applies a sealant, it is in liquid form and fills in the crevices and grooves of the tooth. The dentist cures the liquid resin, and it hardens. The resin blends in with the tooth, making it harder to spot. 

After the new sealant is cured, the dentist will inspect the patient’s bite to ensure it isn’t affected. Initially, the tongue may feel a difference where the sealant is applied, but after a few days, it will become familiar. 

To learn more or to schedule an appointment for sealants for you or your child, give Hale Family Dentistry a call today!