Dental sealants are an effective and simple preventive treatment that helps protect your teeth from cavities. These liquid coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of your teeth, especially the molars and premolars, and they harden to create a protective barrier. Sealants have become a popular and effective solution, particularly for children, but they can also benefit adults. In this article, we’ll explore what sealants are, how they work, and why they are an essential tool in preventing tooth decay.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are painted onto the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have pits and grooves that can be difficult to clean, even with regular brushing. Food particles and bacteria can easily get trapped in these crevices, increasing the risk of cavities. Sealants work by filling in these grooves, creating a smooth surface that makes it easier to keep the teeth clean and free of decay.
Why Are Sealants Important?
The pits and grooves of your molars are prime areas for tooth decay because they can trap food particles and plaque, even if you brush and floss regularly. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas by sealing out bacteria and debris, reducing the risk of cavities. In fact, sealants have been shown to prevent up to 80% of cavities in the first two years after application and continue to protect against 50% of cavities for up to four years.
Who Should Get Sealants?
Sealants are most commonly applied to children’s teeth, as their newly erupted permanent molars are most vulnerable to decay. However, adults who are prone to cavities or have deep grooves in their molars can also benefit from sealants. It’s especially beneficial to apply sealants before decay sets in, but even teeth that have early signs of decay can benefit from sealants to prevent further damage.
How Sealants Work
Sealants are designed to block bacteria from entering the deep grooves and pits of teeth where decay often begins. By creating a smooth, protective layer, sealants make it easier to keep teeth clean and healthy.
The Sealant Application Process
Applying sealants is a quick and painless process that can be completed in one dental visit. Here’s what to expect during a sealant application:
Cleaning the Tooth Surface: The dentist will begin by thoroughly cleaning the tooth to remove any plaque, bacteria, or food particles.
Etching the Tooth: Next, a special solution is applied to the surface of the tooth. This etching process roughens the tooth surface slightly, allowing the sealant to adhere more effectively.
Applying the Sealant: The sealant, which is a liquid material, is then painted onto the chewing surface of the tooth. The liquid flows into the pits and grooves, filling in any tiny crevices where bacteria could potentially hide.
Hardening the Sealant: Once the sealant is applied, the dentist will use a special light to harden it. This ensures that the sealant forms a strong, protective barrier over the tooth.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants are highly durable and can last anywhere from five to 10 years with proper care. However, they aren’t permanent and may need to be re-applied over time. During your regular dental checkups, your dentist will assess the condition of your sealants and recommend reapplication if necessary. The longevity of sealants depends on factors like diet, oral hygiene, and how well you care for your teeth.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
There are several key benefits to getting sealants, particularly for children and teens who are at higher risk for cavities:
- Cavity Prevention: Sealants provide an added layer of protection against cavities by sealing out food and plaque. Studies show that children with sealants are three times less likely to develop cavities compared to those without them.
- Easy Application: The process of applying sealants is quick, painless, and non-invasive, making it an ideal preventive treatment for children and adults alike.
- Cost-Effective: Preventing cavities with sealants can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for fillings, crowns, and other restorative dental treatments.
- Minimal Maintenance: Once applied, sealants don’t require any special care beyond your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing. Regular dental checkups will ensure that your sealants remain intact and effective.
Sealants and Existing Tooth Decay
While sealants are most effective when applied to healthy teeth before decay begins, they can also be used to stop the progression of early decay. If decay has started but has not yet penetrated the enamel deeply, applying a sealant can help prevent it from worsening by blocking the bacteria that cause further damage.
Are Sealants Safe?
Sealants are safe for both children and adults. The materials used in dental sealants are approved by dental associations and have been used for decades. There is minimal risk of side effects, and the benefits of protecting teeth from decay far outweigh any potential concerns.
Caring for Sealants
Once you have sealants, maintaining good oral hygiene is key to their longevity. Follow these tips to keep your sealants in top condition:
- Brush Twice a Day: Continue brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Sealants help protect your teeth, but you still need to remove plaque and bacteria from other areas of your mouth.
- Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline, areas that sealants don’t cover.
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: While sealants are durable, chewing on hard objects like ice or pens can damage them. Stick to softer foods and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your teeth.
- Regular Dental Visits: Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will examine your sealants to ensure they are still intact and provide re-application if needed.
Conclusion
Dental sealants are a highly effective and simple way to prevent cavities, particularly in children and teens. By protecting the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, sealants reduce the risk of decay and make it easier to maintain a healthy smile. The application process is quick and painless, making it an ideal preventive measure for people of all ages. If you or your child are at risk for cavities, talk to your dentist about the benefits of sealants and how they can enhance your oral health.