Even with regular brushing and flossing, the grooves and pits of back teeth (molars) can be difficult to clean, making them more susceptible to cavities. Dental sealants are a simple and effective preventive measure to protect these teeth from decay. In this blog, we'll explore what dental sealants are, how they work, who can benefit from them, and why they are an essential part of maintaining good oral health.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars). These teeth have deep grooves and pits that can easily trap food and bacteria, making them prone to cavities. Sealants work by creating a protective barrier that seals out plaque and food particles, thereby preventing decay.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
The chewing surfaces of molars have small pits and grooves that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Even with diligent brushing, food particles and bacteria can remain lodged in these grooves, leading to cavities over time. Dental sealants fill these grooves, creating a smooth surface that is easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria. This protective barrier can last for several years, providing long-term protection against tooth decay.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
- Children and Teenagers: Sealants are most often recommended for children and teenagers as soon as their permanent molars and premolars come in, typically around ages 6 to 14. This is the period when cavities are most likely to develop.
- Adults Without Decay or Fillings in Molars: While sealants are more commonly applied to children’s teeth, adults without existing decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from sealants.
- People with Deep Grooves in Their Molars: Individuals with naturally deep grooves and pits in their molars are at a higher risk for cavities and can greatly benefit from the added protection sealants provide.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Protection Against Cavities: Sealants provide a protective shield that helps prevent cavities from forming in hard-to-clean areas of the teeth. Studies have shown that sealants can reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars.
- Quick and Painless Application: The process of applying dental sealants is quick, simple, and completely painless. It can be done during a regular dental visit without the need for anesthesia or drilling.
- Cost-Effective Preventive Measure: Preventing cavities with sealants is much more cost-effective than treating cavities with fillings, crowns, or other dental procedures.
- Long-lasting Protection: With proper care and regular check-ups, dental sealants can last up to 10 years. Your dentist will check the sealants during your regular visits and reapply them if necessary.
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
- Cleaning the Teeth: The first step involves thoroughly cleaning the teeth to remove any plaque or food particles.
- Preparing the Teeth: The dentist then applies a special gel to the chewing surfaces of the teeth to help the sealant bond effectively.
- Applying the Sealant: The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes a curing light is used to speed up the hardening process.
- Evaluation: The dentist will check the sealants to ensure they are properly placed and adjust as needed.
Common Myths About Dental Sealants
- Sealants Are Only for Kids: While sealants are most commonly applied to children's teeth, adults without decay can benefit from them too. Sealants provide an added layer of protection for anyone at risk of cavities.
- Sealants Can Replace Brushing and Flossing: Sealants are an additional measure to protect teeth from decay, but they do not replace the need for regular brushing and flossing. Good oral hygiene is essential for overall dental health.
- Sealants Contain Harmful Chemicals: Dental sealants are made from safe materials and are FDA-approved. The amount of any potentially harmful substance, such as BPA, is negligible and far below the level that poses any risk.
Dental sealants are a simple, safe, and highly effective way to protect teeth from cavities, especially for children and teenagers. At Marinaside Dental, we believe in preventive care as the first line of defense against dental problems. If you or your child could benefit from dental sealants, contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help maintain a healthy, cavity-free smile!
