Dental sealants are a common preventive treatment in dentistry. Dentists often recommend these for school-aged children, though people of all ages can benefit from them. Sealants offer protection against cavities but should not replace the responsibility of daily brushing and flossing. You may be curious about what sealants are and how they work. As you understand more about this process, you can feel comfortable about choosing this for yourself or your children.
Of all the issues that dentists treat, cavities are one of the most common and problematic. Cavities are small holes that form on the surface of teeth. Bacteria is the biggest culprit, as these invaders can show up and eat away at the tooth. Untreated, decay can spread and threaten the entire tooth. It can even develop infections, which could affect other parts of the body.
Brushing twice a day with a fluoride-based toothpaste can prevent cavities. Eating less sugar will keep decay away as well. Patients should also see the dentist twice a year for cleanings and examinations. Cavities can be common in people of all ages, but children can be especially prone.
Dentists use dental sealants as a way to protect the tooth against decay. A sealant is a thin coating made of plastic that the dentist paints on the biting surface of a tooth. In most cases, the dentist will place sealants on the person’s molars, but it is possible to put them on other teeth as well. The sealant guards the enamel against deterioration and reduces the person’s risk of having cavities. Sealants are effective at getting into the grooves of the tooth and filling in every space where bacteria can hide.
Dental sealants are a plastic-like resin. The material is similar to the natural color of the person’s tooth. This helps it to blend in well and not stand out. In this way, the sealant will not negatively affect the patient’s smile or appearance. Some sealants can also be made of glass ionomer.
Dentists like to start applying sealants as a patient is getting their first set of molars. This happens at about the time a child is starting school. As the second set of molars come in, the dentist will put on more dental sealants. Older children and teenagers who have never had sealants before can start later by getting sealants on both sets of molars at once. Adults can also have this treatment for their back teeth. Sealants typically last for 10 years, so the dentist can reapply them once they have worn out or chipped away.
Despite your efforts, it is possible to develop cavities. When brushing and flossing are still not doing enough to guard against cavities, dental sealants can help. Whether for a child or yourself, sealants are a good way to preserve oral health and a nice smile. Talk to your dentist today about getting started with this treatment.
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