Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Ralph L. Howell on Dental Sealants
Dr. Ralph L. Howell is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dental Sealants.
Q. What are dental sealants?
A. Dental Sealants are protective coatings on the grooves of the back teeth to prevent the tooth decay. For many patients, especially children, these surfaces are the most vulnerable to decay.
Q. How do dental sealants work?
A. Sealants work by forming a barrier between the tooth grooves and the germs and sugars that attack the teeth causing decay.
Q. Which teeth are suitable for sealants?
A. Primarily molars are the best teeth for sealants; in addition, placing the sealants soon after eruption from the gum is the best time frame to avoid decay.
Q. How are sealants applied?
A. Sealants are applied in a simple and painless procedure. The dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant will clean your teeth and fill all the grooves on the teeth with a protective coating.
Q. Are sealants visible?
A. Sealants are not visible- generally speaking they are clear or colorless.
Q. Will sealants make teeth feel different?
A. Sealants are very thin and will not be obvious to the patient. However, after the initial placement of the sealant, you might be able to identify something overtop of the tooth’s grooves with your tongue.
Q. How long will sealants last?
A. Sealants are checked by your hygienist and dentist at every appointment. Generally, the dentist expects the sealant to last over 5 years. After that time, the enamel surface will have matured and be less susceptible to decay.
Q. How to contact Dr. Howell if we have further questions?
A. If you have any more questions, you can contact either office by phone, Downtown Suffolk (757) 539-7695 or Harbour View Dental Center (757)686-3636, or email your questions to cdh@rlhdds.com.
