Even if you have excellent oral hygiene, deep grooves and pits in your teeth can cause decay. Sealants can protect your teeth from bacteria that leads to decay, while fillings can remedy those teeth that already have cavities caused from decay.
Sealants and Fillings
A dental sealant is made of a high-quality plastic film and applied to the deep grooves (also known as fissures) that are often found in molars. Fissures can be caused by chewing patterns, but they are often just part of the natural growth of teeth. Some people have deeper grooves than others.
While sealants are effective for anyone, they are especially recommended for children whose molars have fully grown in. Sealants can last for many years.
Fillings are made of a different, more permanent material than sealants. They are made of either a tooth-colored resin, silver amalgam, porcelain, or gold. Our Dentist will be sure to provide you with the best material for your needs.
Benefits of Sealants and Fillings
There are many benefits to getting sealants and fillings. Sealants will protect your teeth from bacteria that eventually leads to tooth decay. They will also make your molars easier to clean.
Fillings are used to repair your teeth after the occurrence of a cavity, and they assist in preventing future problems. They can protect your mouth from damage caused by untreated cavities.
How It Works
The process of applying sealant is brief and should not produce pain. It can be applied to just one tooth or several. After it is placed onto the surfaces of your teeth, it will be hardened with an ultraviolet light.
If you need a filling, our dentist will first remove the decay affecting your tooth, then fill it with a durable, permanent material.
Protect Your Teeth and Restore Your Dental Health with Help from Summer Dental
Come see us if you think you may need sealants or fillings. We will examine your teeth and determine the next steps to take.