There’s plenty of advice out there on how to avoid tooth decay that leads to cavities or root canals. Brush regularly. Floss regularly. Try to avoid sugary foods and drinks. Absolutely solid steps that will go a long way in promoting oral health over the years. But there’s actually an extra step you can take that goes even further in preventing tooth decay: dental sealants.
Sealants are most often composed of a thin, plastic coating that is painted directly onto the tooth—focusing mostly on chewing surfaces, such as those found in the molars. This shielding coat locks out elements that promote decay. So instead of just removing the foreign materials that get on your teeth throughout the day, they never actually touch the enamel, and the decaying process never has a chance to begin in the first place.
At Eugene Smiles, our Eugene dental patients often look to sealants as a long-term preventative dental care solution, and for good reason. Here are a few benefits to getting sealants applied:
- Long-Lasting Protection – Sealants can last up to 10 years before needing a reapplication! It’s a worthwhile investment, because they can prevent long-term tooth decay that would result in far costlier procedures.
- Convenient – With sealants, there’s no need to remove or rinse anything, and you certainly won’t accidentally forget them at a restaurant. Plus, getting sealants applied is an incredibly quick, simple, and painless process.
- Aesthetic – Sealants don’t affect the appearance of your teeth. In fact, sealants will go a long way towards preserving your smile’s natural beauty!
Eugene Smiles recommends that children between 6-14 get sealants because of the higher risk of tooth decay that they face. However, sealants can be just as effective in preventative dental care for adults of all ages.
Are you looking to get sealants applied for your children or yourself? Contact Eugene Smiles today for a consultation!