Dental Sealants in Westwood, NJ

One of the best forms of preventative dentistry, besides regular brushing and flossing, is applying dental sealants to the molars to help prevent decay and the development of cavities. Starry Dental is proud to offer this service to the residents of Westwood, NJ, to help patients of all ages keep their teeth healthy and strong using the latest technology.

A sealant is a thin coating of liquid plastic that is applied to the back teeth and allowed to dry over a period of 60 seconds. The coating is not harmful to patients and quickly fills in any pits or irregularities on the biting surface, helping seal off any potential avenues for plaque. When applied early, dental sealants can stop cavities from forming, which keeps teeth healthier for longer.

Who Should Get Sealants?

Anyone who has a permanent set of adult teeth qualifies for sealants at Starry Dental, but the most recommended demographic is children and teenagers who aren’t as great at maintaining oral health and hygiene through brushing and flossing. The sealants can be reapplied each year to maintain a consistent coat of protection, making them an excellent option for patients in Westwood, NJ.

Sometimes younger children might require sealants for their baby teeth as well. The youngest a patient can be for sealants is six years old, as this is around the age that the majority of the teeth have emerged. It’s important to keep baby teeth healthy as they help maintain the jaw’s shape and alignment before the adult versions emerge.

Where Should Sealants Be Placed?

The teeth that sealants should be applied to are the permanent molars that sit in the back of the jaw. The bristles of standard toothbrushes tend not to be long enough to pervade all of the small nooks and crannies, so these molars are more likely to get cavities and experience pitting and decay. Older patients will frequently notice that individuals who have fillings tend to have them on their back teeth.

Sealants can protect teeth for up to ten years once applied, making them an excellent investment for long term health. Anyone interested in the procedure should contact Starry Dental as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.