What Are Sealants?
Sealants are a thin plastic coatings applied on the upper surface of teeth, particularly on molars and premolars. Once applied, a dentist hardens the tooth sealant material to shield and protect teeth from harmful disease-causing bacteria.
Back teeth have deep grooves that help you drink up food when you chew. Food particles and bacteria stuck in these grooves can cause cavities over time.
Tooth sealants act as a barrier that blocks the fluid, air, and pests through gaps in the materials. Coating these areas with sealants prevents bacteria from reaching and hiding.
Sealants are one of the most common and preventative dentistry nowadays, which is used by approximately 42% of children generally aged (6 – 11 years), and about 48% of adolescents ages (12 – 19) have dental sealant on their permanent (adult) teeth.
Benefits Of Using Sealants
Sealants are not only used in children, but most people with oral problems can get the best benefits. Some of the most common and major benefits of using tooth sealants are –
-
Protection Against Cavities
It protects your teeth from cavities, preventing cavity-causing bacteria by covering the top surface of molars and premolars with a tooth-colored plastic, a layer of protection that makes it difficult for bacteria to remain on the surface of teeth.
-
Reduces Deep Grooves
Molars have deeper grooves on the surface of the teeth that make them difficult to clean, no matter how well you brush. In that case, applying a thin coating of sealants can prevent bacteria from hiding and causing cavities or other oral diseases.
-
Safety
The sealants are made up of resins (a type of plastic). Some people think that sealants contain a synthetic compound called BPA, which is harmful to humans.
However, not all sealants contain BPA, and those that do contain them (have only a small amount of BPA) are well known not to cause any harm to humans.
-
Cost-Effective And Durable
Besides, being an easy and painless process for protecting a child’s teeth. This dental procedure is also more cost-effective than other dental restorations.
Many dental insurance companies include tooth sealant in the list of treatments that come under the most general policies.
It also prevents the need for expensive cavity treatment at a fraction of the cost, which makes a sealant cost-effective, and it is one of the best preventative choices for children.
-
Long-Lasting
Applying sealants in childhood will protect the teeth throughout the most cavity-prone years (6 – 11 years), and it can last for many years with proper care and good oral hygiene.
To make your sealants last longer, maintain a good oral hygiene and avoid biting hard and chewy foods.
During dental visits, the dentist will check the condition of your tooth sealants and may recommend reapplication or repair when necessary.
Can Children Have Sealants
Children and teenagers are the best candidates for dental sealants. However, it is also effective when a dentist uses dental sealants for adults without decay or dental fillings in their molars can get the benefits of it.
In general, it is safe and effective to use dental sealants for kids, and anyone who is prone to tooth decay on their back teeth can have tooth sealant.
Children can get sealants on their permanent teeth as soon as they come in. This way, dental sealants can protect teeth through the ages of 6 through 14, which is called cavity-prone years.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), school-age children (between the ages of 6 and 11) without dental sealants have almost three times more molar cavities than children who have them.
What Are Other Ways To Prevent Cavities In Children
Dental sealants for kids are not a treatment, replacement, or routine; they are just preventative measures to protect a child’s teeth from cavities.
Here are some of the other ways how you can protect your children’s teeth from cavities –
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss between the teeth regularly
- Encourage healthy eating instead of sugary snacks
- Visit the dentist regularly
How Dental Sealants Are Applied
The procedure is simple and painless, but it is done after the evaluation by a pediatric dentist. This treatment is carried out by following the steps listed below –
- A professional dentist will clean your teeth to remove any food or bacterial plaque that remains on the dental surface.
- The surface of the affected tooth is dried carefully.
- Once the surface is dry, an acid gel is applied to create a smooth surface to which the sealant will adhere better.
- The affected tooth is carefully rinsed and dried again.
- Once dried, the dental sealant (liquid resin) is applied using a brush or an applicator. It will harden when the “special light” is applied to that area. It usually takes about 10 and 30 seconds to complete the procedure.
Dental sealants are designed to bear chewing forces and last several years. It is recommended that you plan a routine checkup every six months. If the sealant are removed, your dentist will reapply or reconsider if you still need them.
What Is The Recovery Time Of Sealants?
There’s no recovery time after dental sealant placement. You can go back to your daily routine after sealant application.
You can eat and drink right after the sealant application. But it’s important to know that hard, sticky, or chewy foods can erode your sealants. It’s best to consume soft foods and have these foods in moderation.
How Long Does It Last?
Sealants usually last for up to five years, and for best results, you’ll need to have your sealants reapplied on a regular basis.
‘Dacula Dental’ understands the importance of having a perfect smile, and we strive to ensure your oral and dental well-being.
Our friendly atmosphere is crafted to provide comfort and relaxation for each of our patients. Our dental professionals are committed to assist you to obtain and preserve a vibrant and healthier smile.
Schedule an appointment with us today for healthier teeth and gums
Referral Site –
CDC Dental Sealant Facts May 15, 2024