What Are Sealants?
The best way to fight cavities is to brush and floss regularly, but sometimes it can be tough to clean the entire surface of your teeth. This is especially true in the case of our molars, which reside in the deep depths of the mouth and act as a haven for bacteria and leftover food. Thankfully, dentists offer sealants, which are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to your teeth where they prevent cavities and even stop early stages of decay.
When leftover food meets the bacteria in your mouth, acids are produced. These acids can create holes in your teeth, which we call cavities. Sealants work by preventing food from getting stuck in those hard-to-reach spots while also keeping bacteria and acid off the surface of your teeth.
Considering that most people get their first molars around six years of age, the earlier sealants are applied, the better. By sealing your molars at an early age, they could remain cavity-free right from the beginning. And though you might think of them as an expense, sealants are more like an investment. After all, cavity-free teeth mean less money spent in the long-run.
The application process for sealants is rather simple. First, the dentist will clean the teeth on which the sealant will be placed. Then, after the surface is dry, he or she will administer an acidic gel, which forms a strong and durable bond between the sealant and teeth to which it is being applied. After a quick rinse-and-dry, the dentist will apply the sealant and harden it with a special blue light.
Once sealants are placed, they can last several years before a dentist will need to reapply them.
It is important to remember that sealants are not an alternative to brushing your teeth. They simply prevent cavities. In order to maintain healthy teeth, you will still have to brush and floss daily. However, if you discover that brushing and flossing aren’t enough to keep your teeth cavity-free, be sure to mention sealants to your dentist during your next visit.
Top 7 Benefits of Dental Sealants
When 92 percent of adults have had at least one cavity in their life, you know tooth decay is a real issue.
But thankfully, we have something to help protect us. And it’s as simple as a little paint job!
Dental sealants are a thin, plastic barrier your dentist paints onto the chewing surfaces of your teeth. It acts as a shield, deflecting any harmful substance it comes into contact with.
Yet, I bet you didn’t know it brings a host of other benefits with it. Just a little bit curious? Read on to find out how dental sealants can help you.
1. Protects Against Tooth Decay
One of the most widely known benefits of dental sealants is the protection it gives against tooth decay.
The back teeth are hard to reach and have more uneven surfaces than the front. And because of that, they become neglected, leaving them susceptible to decay.
But once a dentist applies sealant, it forms a protective barrier over the enamel of each tooth. Blocking out any harmful substances from touching the surface of the teeth.
2. Prevents plaque and Food Buildup
plaque and food love to find their way into every little nook and cranny in our teeth. And if left to their own accord, they start to build up, bringing bacteria with them.
But the sealant fills up all these hiding places. And when there are no grooves or depressions left on a tooth’s surface, plaque and food are “sealed out” from causing damage.
3. Can Save You Money
Getting dental sealants may cost a little upfront, but it pales in comparison to the cost of dental repairs that could happen down the road.
That’s because sealants are preventative maintenance, protecting your teeth from decay, acid, and bacteria damage. And when there’s no damage to repair, you avoid the huge bill of costly procedures.
4. Fast and Easy to Apply
Unlike many dental procedures, sealants are a fast, comfortable, and easy process to go through.
After a quick cleaning and “roughing up” of the chewing surfaces, the sealant gets painted on. It only takes a few minutes to seal each tooth. Once it’s dry, you’re on your way!
5. Durable and Lasts for Years
Dental sealants are durable, holding up to the normal wear and tear of chewing. And because of that, they can last for up to 10 years before it’s time for a new application.
Of course, your dentist will need to keep an eye out for any cracks or chipping. That’s why regular check-ups are still important.
6. Both Children and Adults Benefit from Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are mostly used in children. They develop pits and fissures early on in life. And sealants can stop the damage before it ever starts.
But adults are vulnerable to tooth decay just the same.
This procedure can help anyone at any age prevent cavities and unwanted dental repairs. And that prolongs the life and health of our teeth.
7. Give Your Teeth the Protection It Deserves
Brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are amazing tools to keep our teeth healthy. But when you add in the benefits of dental sealants, that’s really something to smile about.
Along with sealants, fluoride can play an important role in preventing tooth decay. Check out how it can improve the health of your teeth!
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92% of adults have cavities
