Sealants are a highly effective, preventive dental treatment used to protect the chewing surfaces of your teeth, particularly the molars and premolars, from decay. The pits and grooves on these teeth can be difficult to clean thoroughly, even with regular brushing, making them prime spots for cavities to develop. Sealants offer a simple and effective way to safeguard these vulnerable areas by creating a protective barrier.
What Are Sealants?
Sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, typically your molars and premolars. These surfaces often have deep grooves and pits that can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to plaque buildup and, eventually, tooth decay. Sealants seal these grooves, making it easier to keep the teeth clean and reducing the risk of cavities.
Who Can Benefit from Sealants?
Sealants are beneficial for both children and adults, but they are particularly recommended for children and teenagers. These age groups are more prone to cavities, especially in their molars, because their oral hygiene habits are still developing.
Applying sealants on children’s permanent molars as soon as they come in (usually around ages 6 and 12) can help prevent decay early on. However, adults who have deep grooves in their teeth but are free of decay or fillings can also benefit from sealants.
The Application Process
The process of applying sealants is quick, painless, and can usually be completed in a single visit to the dentist. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:
Cleaning the tooth: The dentist will thoroughly clean the surface of the tooth to remove any plaque or food particles.
Etching the tooth: An etching gel is applied to the tooth to create a slightly rough surface, which helps the sealant bond more effectively to the tooth.
Applying the sealant: The sealant material is then applied to the etched tooth surface. It is a liquid that flows into the grooves and pits, forming a protective shield.
Curing with light: A special curing light is used to harden the sealant quickly, ensuring it stays in place and forms a strong barrier against decay.
The entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth and provides long-lasting protection.
Benefits of Sealants
Sealants offer a number of key benefits:
- Prevents tooth decay: Sealants block out food particles and bacteria, which are the primary causes of tooth decay.
- Cost-effective: By preventing cavities, sealants can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for fillings or more extensive treatments like root canals.
- Long-lasting: Sealants can last between five and 10 years before reapplication is needed. Your dentist will check the condition of your sealants during regular checkups to ensure they remain intact.
- Non-invasive: Sealants are a painless and non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require drilling or removal of tooth structure.
Are Sealants Safe?
Yes, sealants are considered completely safe and have been used in dental care for decades. The materials used are biocompatible and do not pose a risk to patients.
How Long Do Sealants Last?
Sealants can last five to 10 years, depending on how well they are maintained. Over time, the sealant material can wear away, but they can easily be re-applied if necessary. Regular dental checkups will help your dentist monitor the condition of your sealants and determine if they need to be reapplied.
Caring for Your Sealants
Maintaining sealants is simple and doesn’t require any special care beyond regular oral hygiene practices. Continue brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups. Sealants can be a great complement to these healthy habits, offering an extra layer of protection for your teeth.
Conclusion
Sealants are a proven and effective method of protecting your teeth from cavities, especially in the deep grooves of your molars and premolars. By sealing off these vulnerable areas, you can significantly reduce your risk of decay. Whether for children or adults, sealants provide a long-lasting, cost-effective solution to maintain healthy teeth. If you’re considering sealants for yourself or your children, talk to your dentist to learn more about this preventative treatment.