Dental Sealants in Colorado Springs, CO

When it comes to oral health, preventive measures play a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity and longevity of your smile. Dental sealants are a proactive treatment that creates a shield over a tooth to protect it from bacteria. Their simple application process, coupled with the substantial benefits they offer in terms of decay prevention, makes them an excellent choice for individuals looking to protect their teeth from cavities. If you’re considering sealants for yourself or your child, we can help. With over 20 years of experience, you can trust Dr. Bashi to provide personalized care that meets each patient’s unique needs.

Dental Sealants Explained

Dental sealants are a protective coating made from a plastic material. We typically apply the solution to the top surface of the back teeth. This coating adheres to the tooth’s grooves, creating a smooth, protective layer over the enamel. The primary goal of sealants is to prevent food particles from lodging in difficult-to-reach spaces in the mouth. Bacteria in your mouth convert sugar from the food debris into acid, contributing to plaque formation. Plaque is responsible for eroding your enamel and creating cavities. By creating a smooth barrier over the tooth, sealants significantly reduce the risk of decay by making the teeth easier to clean.

Not only do they provide an effective barrier against cavities, but sealants are also designed to be virtually invisible, making them a discreet solution.

Sealants are ideal for anyone who wants to add an extra layer of protection against tooth decay. Children and teenagers are the most common recipients of dental sealants due to their higher susceptibility to cavities during these formative years. However, adults can also benefit from this treatment as well. Sealants can be particularly beneficial for adults who don’t already have fillings and are looking to protect their teeth from future cavities. Alternatively, they are a great resource for individuals who are cavity-prone.

Getting Dental Sealants

During your regular dental checkups, Dr. Bashi carefully assesses the health of your teeth and gums. This involves identifying areas vulnerable to decay. During these visits, he may recommend a dental sealant to preserve your oral health.

The process for getting dental sealants is quick, easy, and non-invasive:

  • Clean the tooth: We thoroughly clean the tooth designated for sealant application by removing plaque and food particles.
  • Dry and isolate the treatment area: We then dry the tooth and surround it with cotton or similar material to ensure it stays dry.
  • Apply acid solution: We apply an acidic gel to the tooth’s surface. This roughens the tooth slightly, which helps the sealant bond securely.
  • Rinse and dry the tooth: The gel is rinsed off, and the tooth is dried again to prepare for the sealant application.
  • Apply the sealant: Dr. Bashi paints the liquid sealant material directly onto the tooth’s enamel, filling the pits and grooves.
  • Cure the material: A UV light cures the sealant and bonds it to the tooth, creating a durable protective layer that lasts for up to 10 years.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants

The main purpose of dental sealants is to reduce the risk of cavities—but this isn’t their only benefit. These protective coatings shield the grooves and pits of molars and premolars from decay-causing bacteria and food particles. This contributes to a more efficient and effective oral hygiene routine. By smoothing out the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, sealants make it easier to brush away plaque. This reduces the likelihood of tartar buildup that can cause gum disease.

Other dental procedures may require drilling or removal of tooth structure. However, sealants are applied directly to the tooth’s surface without altering the teeth. This makes sealants an exceptionally patient-friendly option, ideal for those who may be anxious about dental work.

Additionally, dental sealants stand out for their efficiency in terms of cost and time. The application process is quick, typically completed within a single short dental visit, making it a convenient choice for children. From a financial perspective, sealants are a cost-effective preventive measure. They protect teeth from decay and reduce the need for more complex dental treatments in the future. This means that sealants can lead to considerable savings on dental care expenses over time.

Protect Your Oral Health With Dr. Bashi Today

Dental sealants are just one of the many tools aimed at preventing dental problems and ensuring a healthy smile. Whether you’re considering sealants for yourself or a loved one, our team is here to provide the expertise and care you need to make informed decisions about your dental health. By investing in dental sealants, you’re taking a significant step towards maintaining a healthy smile for years to come. Contact us today at the Mini Dental Implant Center of America in Colorado Springs to schedule your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dental sealants are recognized for their safety and effectiveness. According to the CDC, school-aged children who do not have sealants are three times more likely to develop cavities in their first molars than those with sealants.

Additionally, the levels of BPA found in dental sealants are extremely low and do not cause any health issues. The remarkable benefits of sealants in cavity prevention significantly outweigh the minimal BPA exposure. Dental professionals like Dr. Bashi ensure the safe application of sealants, making them a reliable choice for protecting teeth from decay.

As a preventative treatment, dental insurance often covers dental sealants, but coverage varies by insurance plan. If your insurance doesn’t fully cover sealants or if you’re looking for more options, don’t worry. We partner with financing companies to offer flexible payment plans, making it easier to get the preventive care you need. Our team is here to help you understand your insurance benefits and find the most affordable way to include sealants in your dental care. We’re committed to making sure you have access to essential general dentistry services.

Children, like adults, should have a routine exam and cleaning every six months. These visits set a strong foundation for oral healthcare. They help Dr. Bashi provide preventative care and diagnose and treat dental problems before they worsen.