You are busy throughout the day casually munching on food. It exposes teeth to bacteria and sugars, which can result in decay. Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth. They act as a barrier between teeth and bacteria. Let’s get into more details.
What Does Sealant Do For Teeth?
Sealant coating helps prevent tooth decay by “sealing out” plaque and food particles that can accumulate on the teeth.
- Prevents Plaque and Food Accumulation
Sealants cover the chewing surfaces of teeth, preventing debris from building in the pits of teeth. This helps prevent the formation of cavities. - Bond to Tooth Enamel
Teeth sealants bond directly to the enamel to create a protective shield over it. - Smooth Tooth Surface
They also smoothen out the tooth surface, making it easier to keep teeth clean. - Prevents Decay
Sealants reduce the risk of decay in molars by nearly 80%. They protect teeth from decay, but they need checking for chipping or wearing at regular dental check-ups. - Protect Vulnerable Areas
You can expect this shield to cover vulnerable areas of the teeth, such as the depressions and grooves on the chewing surfaces. These areas are difficult to clean with a toothbrush and are prone to decay.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
Dental sealants shield your teeth. They are thin liquid resin films that target the chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars. These areas are most susceptible to decay due to their shape.
The sealant’s effectiveness is actually in its ability to penetrate the pits of the teeth, where food particles and bacteria accumulate. Once applied, the resin dries and hardens to act as a barrier. This barrier blocks cavity-causing bacteria and acids.
The application of dental sealants is easy and painless. During the first visit, a comprehensive examination is done to identify existing cavities. This is because sealants over them are not possible. Following a thorough cleaning, a special gel is applied to the tooth surface. After a quick rinse, the dentist applies the liquid resin, which hardens to form the protective layer.
Why Should Adults Get Dental Sealants?
While cavities are more prevalent during childhood, particularly between the ages of 6 and 14, adults are not immune to this dental concern. The risk of developing cavities persists throughout life, especially for individuals with less-than-ideal oral hygiene practices or a fondness for sugary treats. Dental sealants offer a valuable preventive measure for adults as well. In addition to preventing new cavities from forming, sealants can also be beneficial in cases of mild decay on adult molars. The sealant application can halt the progression of the existing decay and prevent further damage to the tooth structure. However, it’s important to note that dental sealants cannot be placed on teeth with existing fillings.
Closing Note
So, dental sealants are quite a good idea as a preventive measure to save teeth. If you have any more questions, you can get in touch with Nimmi Shine Dental at (858) 999-8550 for help.
