Serving patients of Erwin, Jonesborough, and Greeneville, TN
Protecting your teeth goes beyond brushing and flossing every day. Although routine dental cleanings and examinations have a significant impact on keeping your mouth healthy, sealants can actually help prevent cavities in your back teeth.
What are sealants?
Sealants consist of a plastic material that fills the tiny grooves on the chewing surface of your back teeth or the molars and pre-molars. These areas are hard to keep clean, and bacteria lurk in these crevices, which can lead to tooth decay. Sealants blend in with your teeth, so they are not noticeable by others.
Who should get sealants?
Children are known not to have the manual dexterity needed for brushing their teeth well. Since their back teeth are most prone to decay, sealants are typically recommended for children as soon as their permanent molars erupt. Even adults who are prone to tooth decay in these areas may also benefit from receiving sealants. Speak with your Greeneville family dentist at Tusculum Dental Care if you think sealants may be right for you or your child.
How long do sealants last?
Sealants can typically last about 10 years but should be inspected during routine visits to the dentist. Sometimes, sealants may wear down or fall out completely, which may warrant a reapplication of the protective coating.
Are sealants effective?
Yes! According to research conducted by the American Dental Association, sealants that are applied to six-year molars upon eruption can reduce the chance of cavities in those specific teeth by up to 80%. Just think of all the time and money you will save by not having to pay for fillings. Not to mention, sealants help you maintain good oral health.
How much do sealants cost?
Typically, sealants may range from $30-40 per tooth and are typically covered by dental insurance policies, especially for children. Even if you do not have dental insurance, it is still advised that your child receive dental sealants on their back teeth. You can speak with our business office regarding convenient payment options and special financing if you would like to take advantage of either.
How are sealants applied?
Sealants are most effective when applied right after a dental cleaning. The reason for this is because a dental cleaning removes all bacteria that lead to tooth decay. Therefore, applying the sealants immediately afterward ensures no bacteria get trapped underneath.
The teeth are isolated by placing small pieces of cotton alongside the cheek and beside the tongue. The teeth are thoroughly rinsed, and then dried. A special etching solution is first applied and then rinsed away. The etching solution helps the sealants adhere to the tooth better. After the teeth are dried once more, then the sealant material is placed into the grooves of the teeth. It dries rather quickly or can be hardened by using a special curing light.
How do I care for my sealants?
It is best to avoid eating sticky candies such as taffy or caramel. Also, avoiding chewing on ice. Otherwise, you are free to eat most anything of your choosing. Remember to continue brushing and flossing as recommended, and to visit your dentist in Greeneville at least once every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
Sealants in Greeneville
If you would like to learn more about dental sealants, and how to protect your oral health, please contact Tusculum Dental Care by calling (423) 639-7575 to schedule a consultation.
Tusculum Dental Care welcomes patients of Erwin, Jonesborough, and Greeneville, Tennessee.