Both adults and kids in Chesterland, OH can benefit from dental sealants to prevent tooth loss
Our family works with your family to maintain healthy, beautiful smiles for life. Dental sealants in Chesterland, OH at our office represent one of the most powerful and straightforward preventive services available to modern dentistry. In fact, sealants such as those placed by Dr. Brianne Fratantonio and her associates at Chesterland Family Dental Care have been clinically proven to reduce the risk of decay among “sealed” teeth by up to 80%!
How sealants work
When you run your tongue over your back teeth, or look in the closest mirror, you feel and see grooved surfaces. These grooves or pitted areas tend to trap food particles and promote the bacteria responsible for tooth decay. The location of these molars is also problematic, because it can be difficult to reach back teeth easily. This is where dental sealants come to the rescue.
Sealants are applied to protect teeth that are vulnerable to decay. They behave like “rain coats” for our teeth; instead of absorbing the particles and other harmful substances, sealants block these intruders from penetrating the tooth.
Sealants are generally made from two different categories of dental materials: glass ionomers or composite resin. These materials are applied to clean and dry, decay-prone teeth in liquid form. The sealants are then “cured” or hardened and bonded securely to the natural, underlying tooth structure. For the strongest bond, minimal preparation (or “etching”) is required. This step of further texturing the teeth supports a durable “seal” and also helps to allow the sealant material to flow thoroughly into the fissures.
The process is:
- Fast – can be completed in minutes
- Easy
- Painless
- Non-invasive
- Lasting – we’ll check the condition of the sealants during routine check-ups
- Affordable – may be 100% covered by insurance as a preventive service
- Effective at preventing the leading causes of tooth loss
Not just for kids
Dental sealants may be recommended to our pediatric patients. The sooner we’re able to protect molars from decay, the better. These back teeth first begin to erupt or break through the gums at around the age of six. So, that’s why you may associate sealants as a children’s dental treatment. However, sealants don’t have an “age limit.” In fact, as you get older, new challenges may arise to your good oral health. Hundreds of medications to manage chronic conditions cause dry mouth. Saliva cleanses food debris naturally. Sealants can help to keep your teeth free of harmful particles that stick to uneven surfaces.
Learn more about Sealants and other advanced dental care technologies
Call (440) 491-4001 to schedule an appointment
Call (440) 491-4001 to schedule an appointment at Chesterland Family Dental Care. We’ll discuss ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and looking and feeling great.
FAQ
What are dental sealants?
Our team at Chesterland Family Dental Care describes dental sealants as thin, plastic coatings applied to the surface of teeth. They are mainly used on molars and premolars to prevent tooth decay by protecting the deep grooves and crevices from bacteria and food particles.
How long do dental sealants last?
With proper care, dental sealants will last five years or longer. However, they might require replacement if they become chipped or worn down over time.
Are dental sealants safe?
Absolutely! Our dental sealants used at Chesterland Family Dental Care are completely safe for both children and adults. They are made of a non-toxic material that can be easily applied and does not cause any harm to the teeth or gums.
Who should get dental sealants?
Drs. Brianne Fratantonio, Nicholas Fratantonio, Trudy Amstadt, and Jeff Budrys find that dental sealants may benefit most patients of all ages. However, children and teenagers are the most common candidates for this preventive treatment, as their teeth are more susceptible to decay due to poor brushing habits or difficulty reaching certain areas of the mouth.
How are dental sealants applied to the teeth?
The actual process of applying these dental sealants is quick and painless. Our skilled team will first clean and dry the tooth surface before applying an acidic gel to help roughen the surface for better adhesion. Once rinsed off and dried, the sealant is painted onto the natural tooth enamel and hardened with a special light.
How do I take care of my dental sealants?
Taking care of your dental sealants is simple. Our team educates patients on the steps they can take to keep the sealants as long as possible. You brush and floss your teeth as you usually do to keep the smile healthy and clean!
Who can I call in the Chesterland, Ohio, area to learn more about dental sealants?
At Chesterland Family Dental Care, we can educate you on ways to prevent problems such as dental disease and infection. Call (440) 491-4001 to request an upcoming visit to our office, conveniently located at 8276 Mayfield Road. Drs. Brianne Fratantonio, Nicholas Fratantonio, Trudy Amstadt, and Jeff Budrys can offer you and your children the services you need to achieve and keep healthy smiles for life! We welcome new and returning patients and families into our office for quality, comprehensive dentistry.
