Dental Sealants in El Paso, TX

To prevent decay, Dr. Baker endorses the use of protective sealants. These are applied to the chewing surfaces of children's molars. Sealants ensure that food particles and bacteria will not build up in the grooves on the chewing surface of the tooth. To ensure that the surface of the tooth remains protected, sealants may need to be reapplied as needed.

A sealant is a shaded plastic coating that can be painted on the chewing surfaces (grooves) of the premolars and molars to prevent tooth decay. Sealants act as a barrier to protecting the tooth from food, plaque, and acid. However, decay can still form around a sealant or between teeth if not brushed or flossed correctly. The application of sealants is simple and painless. Placement is a three-step process:

1. The tooth surface is thoroughly cleaned with a material called "soap"
2. Drying agent "conditioner" is applied and air dried
3. The sealant is "painted" on where it bonds to the tooth surface and is hardened with a curing "laser" light Proper care of the sealant will ensure optimum performance in protecting the teeth