Dental Sealants in Kokomo, Indiana
Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars to prevent cavities. This barrier shields your teeth from food particles and bacteria that can cause decay, making it an effective preventive measure for both children and adults.
At Caron and Jones Dental Care, we offer dental sealants in Kokomo, Indiana, as a simple, painless way to protect your teeth and maintain long-term oral health.
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
Kids are the best candidates for dental sealants, especially when their permanent molars come in—around ages 6 to 12. These teeth have deep grooves and pits that can trap food and bacteria, making them prone to cavities. Since kids’ brushing habits are still developing, applying dental sealants gives an extra layer of protection to prevent tooth decay during these formative years. By sealing off these grooves, dental sealants provide long-term cavity prevention and better overall oral health as their teeth continue to grow.
While dental sealants are most commonly thought of for kids, teens, and adults can benefit, too, especially if they are prone to cavities or have deep grooves and pits in their molars. Some people, no matter their age, naturally have deeper fissures in their teeth, making it hard to clean these areas with just brushing. In such cases, applying sealants can prevent decay in these hard-to-reach areas, reducing the need for future fillings or more extensive dental work. Sealants are a cost-effective preventive solution for teens and adults looking to maintain their oral health.
The Dental Sealant Procedure at Caron and Jones Dental Care
We outline the treatment process before we begin so you know exactly what to expect. Here’s how we approach your providing you dental sealants:
Teeth Cleaning
Before applying dental sealants, our dentist in Kokomo will begin by thoroughly cleaning your teeth. This step makes sure that the surface is free from any food particles, plaque, or bacteria that could get trapped under the sealant. The teeth are then dried and prepared for the application process so the sealant properly adheres to the surface.
Sealant Application
Once the teeth are clean and dry, a special gel is applied to roughen the surface slightly. This helps the sealant bond effectively. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, the dentist carefully paints the sealant material directly onto the chewing surface of the molars and premolars. The liquid sealant flows into the tiny grooves and pits of the teeth, providing a protective barrier against bacteria and decay.
Hardening the Sealant
To harden the sealant quickly and provide long-lasting protection, a special curing light is used. The light helps the sealant solidify in just a few seconds, making the protective layer durable and ready to shield your teeth from cavities.
Daily Habits
Even with dental sealants, good oral hygiene is key. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove any plaque or food that may build up between your teeth. Although sealants protect the chewing surfaces, the areas between your teeth still need attention to prevent cavities and gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen the enamel around the sealants.
Checkups
Although sealants last long term, you should still visit Caron and Jones Dental Care for regular checkups. At these visits, our dentist will check the sealants for wear and tear. Sealants can last several years but may need to be reapplied to maintain continuous protection against decay.
Regular cleanings and exams will keep your smile healthy for life.
Protect Your Smile with Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a simple yet effective way to safeguard your teeth from cavities and maintain long-term oral health. Whether for children, teens, or adults, sealants offer a durable layer of protection against decay, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
At Caron and Jones Dental Care, we’re committed to providing top-quality preventive care to help you keep your smile healthy for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about how dental sealants in Kokomo, Indiana, can benefit you and your family.