When you need routine dental care, your first thought is to search for a dentist near you. Whether you need to have your teeth cleaned, a cavity filled, or a chip repaired, Lovett Dental Beaumont offers the services you need to keep your smile healthy. Part of the scope of work for dentists includes dental fillings and sealants. Lovett Dental Beaumont offers both procedures, and although they serve different purposes, both may help optimize your oral health and protect your teeth.

How Do Dental Sealants Protect The Teeth?

woman getting dental fillingsDental sealants are applied by your dentist and consist of a thin coating of dental-grade plastic or other similar material. Primarily, dental sealants are for your molars because these teeth have deep grooves and are difficult to brush. This makes the back teeth more prone to cavity formation. Additionally, your dentist may apply a sealant over a small cavity to prevent it from worsening. Your dentist will carefully monitor the cavity to ensure it’s not getting worse.

In effect, dental sealants act as a shield. They protect your teeth from debris and bacteria from remaining in the crevices of your teeth, causing decay. The sealants adhere to your teeth and will last for several years. At that point, your dentist may reapply them.

Before your dentist applies them, they will place an acidic gel on the teeth. The gel roughs up the enamel of your teeth, so the dental sealants remain on those teeth. Then, your dentist will remove the gel to apply the sealant.

Once the gel has been removed, your dentist will apply the sealant. Finally, your dentist will use a special blue light that cures the sealant.

Getting a Cavity Filled

Dental fillings are part of restorative dentistry, meaning that dentists use this practice to fix a problem. Filling cavities stops decay and strengthens teeth.

Before you receive your dental filling, your dentist will discuss the different types of materials available and help you decide which one best suits your needs. For instance, if the damage is on one of your front teeth, your dental practitioner may suggest opting for a material that blends in with your natural teeth, such as composite resin. On the other hand, your back teeth take the brunt of the force when you chew or if you grind your teeth. Therefore, a material like composite resin may not hold up well. As a result, your dentist may recommend you opt for a  type of metal on your back teeth because they’re stronger, and you don’t need to worry about the tooth’s aesthetics.

For a dental filling process, your dentist will first remove the damaged portions of your tooth. After disinfecting the area to remove any further bacteria, your dentist will then place the filling inside the hole. After that, your dentist will smooth and file the filling to avoid jagged edges.

Choose Lovett Dental Beaumont for Cavity Fillings and Sealants

When you search for a dentist near Beaumont, you will find a large discrepancy in quality. While all dentists receive the same level of education, not all dentists provide the same results. Finding the right dentist is especially important when you’re looking for a dentist to fill a cavity in order to get long-lasting, comfortable results. Here at Lovett Dental Beaumont, we pride ourselves on our relationships with patients. Whether you’re an adult looking to maintain or rejuvenate your smile or a family in need of pediatric dental care for your children to grow with, we can accommodate you.

Contact Lovett Dental Beaumont to discuss if sealants are right for you or to see if you could benefit from a filling. We’re available by calling 409-924-8100.