The phrase "prevention is always better than cure" also rings true for oral health. This means that your oral health is no exception to damage if its not well taken care of. What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings made of a plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These back teeth have natural grooves, pits, and fissures that trap food particles and bacteria, making them more susceptible to cavities.
Although brushing and flossing help to get rid of particles, they may not be able to reach all the crevices on the back teeth and effectively remove the food and plaque.
Dental sealants act as a shield, creating a smooth surface that helps prevent decay in the vulnerable areas of teeth by sealing out food and plaque.
Why Are Dental Sealants Applied On Teeth?
The main reason for placing dental sealants on teeth in preventive dentistry, is to prevent tooth decay and cavities.
The tiny pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of your back teeth can be difficult to clean with brushing alone. Bacteria can accumulate in these areas and cause cavities over time.
By applying a protective coating of dental sealant, you can help keep these areas clean and free from bacteria.
Who Should Get Sealants?
In Children's Dentistry, sealants are recommended for children when their permanent molars come in (usually around age six to 14) and for adults prone to cavities.
However, anyone can benefit from dental sealants if they risk developing cavities.
Moreover, it's possible to use dental sealants on baby's teeth, especially when they have deep depressions or grooves.
Since baby teeth are essential for properly spacing permanent teeth, keeping them healthy is important so they don't fall out prematurely.
How Are Sealants Applied?
The process of applying dental sealant is straightforward and painless. The dentist only takes a few minutes to prepare and apply the sealant to each tooth. First, the dentist will clean and dry the area where the sealant will be applied.
Then they will apply an acidic solution which helps create a rough surface so that the sealant material can bond better with the tooth enamel.
After rinsing off this solution, they will apply the liquid dental sealant material, which hardens into a protective coating. Sometimes light from a special curing light instrument is used to harden the sealant.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants typically last up to 10 years with proper care. However, it's important to have them checked at regular checkups to detect any damage or wear early on before it leads to more serious issues like cavities or tooth decay.
The dentist may also recommend reapplying them every few years, depending on how well they hold up over time.
Is Getting Sealants Painful?
The process for applying dental sealants is quick and painless. There should not be any discomfort involved at all.