Fillings & Sealants
Fillings
A filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks or fractures. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a filling. We do not place amalgam fillings, only white composite fillings.
White fillings can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, and provide highly aesthetic results.
You and your Penticton family dentist can discuss if fillings are the best options for restoring your teeth during your regular check-up.
Sealants
A sealant is a thin coating of a filling material that is applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves of teeth. More than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves, as they are hard to clean and are susceptible to decay. A sealant protects the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface.
Sealants can protect teeth from decay for many years, but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.
Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new sealants.
Reasons for sealants
Children and Teenagers
As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16.
Adults
Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves or depressions.
Baby teeth
Occasionally done if teeth have deep grooves or depressions and child is cavity prone.