The health of your smile starts with proper care at home. However, did you know that even with a proper at-home oral care routine, it is still essential to go to the dentist at least every six months for routine dental exams? Welcome to Main Street Dental, your trusted dental care provider in the Alpharetta area. Our practice, led by the skilled and experienced Dr. Imad Sabbagh and Dr. Humam Salahieh, is dedicated to providing high-quality dental care. We offer various services, from preventative care to restorative dental treatments. One such service we proudly offer for patients in Alpharetta, Georgia, is dental sealants. 

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, usually the back molars and premolars. These coatings act as a barrier against plaque, bacteria, and food particles, helping to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Sealants are typically made of plastic material and can last several years with proper care.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, as they are more prone to cavities, particularly in their back teeth. However, adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if deep grooves and fissures in their molars and premolars make them susceptible to decay.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants

1. Prevent Cavities: Sealants provide an extra layer of protection against cavity-causing bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of decay.
2. Save Time and Money: Sealants can prevent cavities, which can help you avoid more extensive and costly dental treatments in the future.
3. Quick and Painless Application: Applying sealants is fast, painless, and non-invasive, making it an excellent option for patients of all ages.
4. Long-Lasting Protection: With proper dental care, sealants can last up to 10 years, offering long-term protection for your teeth.
5. Preserve Tooth Structure: Sealants help maintain teeth’ natural structure by preventing decay reducing the need for fillings or other restorative procedures.

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

The application of dental sealants is a straightforward process that involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: Dr. Sabbagh or Dr. Salahieh thoroughly cleans and dries the tooth to ensure a strong bond.
2. Etching: An acidic solution is applied to the tooth’s chewing surface to create a rough texture, allowing the sealant to adhere better.
3. Rinsing and Drying: The etching solution is rinsed off, and the tooth is dried again.
4. Sealant Application: The liquid sealant is carefully painted onto the tooth’s chewing surface.
5. Curing: A special curing light hardens the sealant, creating a durable protective barrier.

Aftercare 

Taking care of your dental sealants is essential to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some aftercare tips:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Visit Main Street Dental every six months for routine check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will check the condition of your sealants and reapply them if necessary.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or nails, which can damage the sealants.
• Use Fluoride Toothpaste. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and protect against decay, providing an additional layer of defense along with sealants.

Dental Sealants in Alpharetta, GA

Dental sealants are a simple yet highly effective way to protect your teeth from cavities and decay. Whether you’re a parent looking to safeguard your child’s dental health or an adult seeking extra protection for your teeth, dental sealants are a great option.

At Main Street Dental in Alpharetta, GA, Dr. Imad Sabbagh and Dr. Humam Salahieh are committed to providing our patients with the best dental care solutions. Please schedule an appointment with us today. Together, we can ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.