If you wish to protect your child’s teeth or yours, sealants may be the solution. A dental sealant in Nanaimo is a thin layer on the biting surface of the posterior teeth.
It stops food and germs from getting into the tiny grooves that are difficult to clean. Most people ask whether sealants will be uncomfortable or painful. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Does a Dentist Do for Sealants?
A dentist in Nanaimo will examine your teeth to determine if sealants are right for you. Sealants are usually applied to children or teenagers, but healthy molars in adults also receive them.
This is how:
- The dentist will brush your teeth.
- The tooth is dried, and a special gel is put over it.
- The gel is then rinsed off after a few seconds.
- Then the sealant is brushed onto the tooth using a brush.
- A special blue light is used to harden it.
This whole process is quick and doesn’t require any shots or drilling.
Do Dental Sealants Hurt?
One of the most common questions is, Do dental sealants hurt? The answer is no. Sealants do not involve removing any part of your tooth, so there’s no pain. It’s a surface-level treatment that only takes a few minutes per tooth.
What you may feel:
- A little bit of pressure is applied when the dentist applies the sealant
- The material might feel different when you first bite down
- A cold feeling from the gel or air used to dry your tooth
Most people forget the sealant is even there after a few days.
Understanding the Dental Sealant Procedure
The dental sealant procedure is easy and safe. It doesn’t involve needles, drills, or numbing. That’s why it’s often recommended for children.
Here are the basic steps again:
- The tooth has been cleansed.
- The tooth has dried.
- The application of etching gel
- Rinse off the gel.
- Sealant is applied, and it is hardened using blue light.
The whole thing usually takes less than 15 minutes for each tooth.
Are Dental Sealants Painful or Uncomfortable?
Not at all. Some people say the sealant feels a little bit like having a tiny bump on your tooth, but that goes away fast.
Things to expect:
- The treated tooth might feel slightly higher than your other teeth at first
- You might notice the texture for a day or two
- You can get back to normal eating or drinking once the treatment is done.
- If anything feels too high or rough, the dentist can adjust it quickly.
Why Sealants Are a Smart Choice
Sealants are an easy way to prevent cavities. Since the back teeth are hard to clean, the grooves can trap bacteria and food. Sealants block this from happening.
Check out the pros of dental sealants:
- Painless and fast
- No drilling or needles
- Safe for kids and adults
- Lasts several years
- Helps avoid cavities and fillings
Protect Your Smile Before It Gets Late
If you want to avoid cavities and keep your back teeth healthy, sealants can help. They are quick, easy, and pain-free.
Uplands Dental Clinic offers sealants for kids and adults in a friendly, gentle setting. Book your appointment today and ask if sealants are right for you.
FAQs About Dental Sealants
Q1. How long do dental sealants last?
Most sealants last 5 to 10 years, but your dentist will check them at regular visits.
Q2. Can adults get sealants?
Yes. If your molars don’t have fillings or decay, sealants can still work well.
Q3. Do I need to avoid eating after getting sealants?
No. You can eat and drink right away, but try not to chew anything very sticky for the first day.
