If you are a senior considering dental implants, you may have to worry about issues other dental patients don't have to think about. For example, you may need more time to recover after receiving your implants. My name is Jodi, and I've been working with seniors for years. I decided to create this blog to help the seniors I can't meet in person. In this space, I'm going to post entries on everything related to dental implants and seniors. From tips on flossing implants after arthritis has claimed some of your dexterity, to guiding you through the implants-vs-dentures debate, this blog is designed for you. Thanks for reading. I hope you find what you need!
When we're busy juggling our day-to-day responsibilities, it's easy to push aside those regular dental ch
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A beautiful and confident smile plays an important role in your life. Cosmetic dentistry offers the oppor
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Dental sealants are a specialised kind of teeth protection. Sealants are made from an ultra-thin plastic material that can be painted directly onto the teeth. Whilst on the teeth, it prevents bacteria from entering the tooth crevices that would otherwise be vulnerable. This, in turn, helps prevent tooth decay. If you're wondering whether a dental sealant might be a good idea for you, read below to find out.
The Right Age For Dental Sealants
The majority of patients who get dental sealants are children and pre-teens. Dental sealants are especially helpful for young patients who don't yet have the motor skills or attention span to do a thorough job every time they brush. The sealant can protect the teeth that would otherwise start to decay due to lack of attention.
Whilst less common, sealants can also be used in adults, particularly in adults who have dealt with chronic tooth decay. If you learn that you have new cavities nearly every time you have a check-up at the dentist, a sealant might be a good idea. Of course, it's also important that you do everything possible to achieve optimal dental care since sealants aren't a permanent fix.
The Dental Sealant Application Process
If your dentist determines that you're a good candidate for dental sealant, you'll generally have the sealant applied on the spot. The application process takes only a few minutes in most cases, and it's entirely pain free. You'll simply need to relax, open wide, and wait whilst the dentist uses a paintbrush like tool to apply the sealant to the teeth that require protection.
In most cases, dental sealants are used only on some teeth. It's rare for a patient to need a sealant on their entire mouth. The most common place for dental sealants is the back of the mouth. The molars are particularly hard to reach whilst brushing and flossing, and this can mean that they're more likely to develop cavities. However, some patients do need sealants on the middle and even front teeth, particularly if they have a history of poor oral health in these areas.
The Longevity of Dental Sealants
Sealants can last for years. The exact longevity varies by patient, but young children who get a dental sealant may have it until they reach their adult years. Sealants wear away naturally over time, and they don't have to be removed by the dentist. As your sealant starts to wear away, your dentist will monitor your oral health to determine whether another application may be necessary.
If it sounds like a dental sealant is right for you, contact a local dental clinic, such as Care Dental, to learn more today!
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