Dental sealants are proprietary dental resins that are painted onto properly prepared teeth to prevent decay. Dental sealants are most often applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars (the large teeth in the back of the mouth).
Brushing and flossing are the foundations of a good dental hygiene program. However, neither activity reaches into the minute flaws on the surfaces of teeth. These flaws, referred to as fissures and pits, harbor plaque, which leads to decay. Properly applied dental sealants fill the fissures and pits, thus preventing them from becoming hiding places for plaque.
The application of dental sealants requires the proper preparation of the tooth or teeth to be sealed. Once the teeth are prepared, the resin is mixed and carefully painted onto the appropriate areas of the teeth. The resin is then dried. This highly effective process takes only a few minutes for each tooth, and can save many hours of time spent in restorative and cosmetic dental procedures. Properly applied dental sealants will last indefinitely. Doctor McFarland will inspect your dental sealants when you get your regular cleanings and exams to ensure the sealants are still intact.
Since teeth become vulnerable to decay soon after they are used for eating, young people can benefit greatly by the application of sealants. Adults, especially those with soft teeth or teeth that have acquired a large number of fissures or pits over time, can also benefit greatly from the application of sealants.
Doctor McFarland has been a dentist in Miles City since 1993. As the head of a full service family dental practice, Doctor McFarland performs all dental procedures including cosmetic and restoration; dentures; dental bonding; bridges; crowns; implants; veneers; teeth whitening; sealants; fluoride treatments; root canals and more. McFarland Family Dentistry also maintains its own laboratory, fabrication and x-ray facilities to ensure patients receive the very best care with as few visits as possible.