Are you interested in getting dental sealants?

Dr. Jeanette Murphy, of Monroe, MI, uses sealants to protect your teeth. Dental sealants are a protective layer that prevents bacteria from penetrating teeth and causing decay. Cavity-causing bacteria and leftover food particles produce acids that create holes in teeth, called a cavity or tooth decay.

Sealants are often glass ionomers or resin-modified glass ionomers.  The sealant is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth in a “liquid” form, then hardened (or cured) when a bright curing light is used on the material.

The process of getting a sealant is quite simple and quick. Your dentist cleans your teeth, dries them, and applies an acid gel on the surface of your teeth. Then they'll wait a few moments for the acid to open up already-existing dental pores and rinse it off. Afterwards your dentist will apply the sealant onto the grooves of your tooth and use a special blue light to harden the sealant.

Your Monroe dentist advises you take certain preventative measures to protect your teeth:

• Brush your teeth twice a day in while holding the soft-bristled toothbrush at a 40-degree angle and brushing in circular motion at the gum.
• Floss every night and aim at removing foot particles stuck between the edges of teeth and gums.
• Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco.
• Avoid sticky sugary foods that will increase acid-producing bacteria that decay teeth.
• Eat a balanced diet, like apples which remove food stuck on the surface of your teeth, such as cheese
• Use antiseptic and fluoride rinses.
• Have sealants placed on young permanent teeth.

Do you want to speak with your Monroe, MI, dentist, Dr. Jeanette Murphy, about dental sealants? Just give your dentist a call at (734) 242-4744 today for more information.