How Dental Sealants Can Save Your Teeth from Cavities
One of the biggest problems with dental care is cavities, and it can happen to a person, both adult and child. Although it is necessary to perform regular brushing, flossing, and other dental check-ups in order to maintain oral hygiene, it is said that preventive measures such as dental sealants can prevent cavities efficiently and may become the game-changer for cavity prevention. In this paper, the focus zooms in on the work of dental sealants, the process of application, and the significance of dental sealants for both children and adults.
What are Dental Sealants?
To ward off cavities and decay of teeth, dentists use dental sealants, which are protective layers that are wafer-thin, on the chewing teeth, also called the premolars and the molars. These teeth have small grooves and pits, and the sealant is filled in those spaces, any food particles that remain stuck and bacteria can also grow in these spaces in places, and this may cause decay. Dental sealants are hard materials, such as resin or glass ionomer, and create a barrier to prevent the development of plaque and frequent bacterial growth, which results in cavities.
Although dental sealants are primarily intended for children, they can also benefit adults, especially those with deep grooves in their teeth.
The Procedure of Applying Dental Sealants
The application of dental sealants is quick, easy, and non-invasive. This is what the procedure would involve:
- Cleaning the Teeth: The dentist will use a tooth cleaner to make sure that your teeth are plaque-free and without any debris that might result in the failure of the sealant application.
- Preparing the Teeth: A gel is applied to lightly etch the surface of the tooth, creating a slightly rough texture. This helps the sealant adhere more effectively to the tooth.
- Applying the Sealant: The sealant is then applied to the surface of the tooth. After applying, it hardens either by use of special light or natural curing.
- Checking the Seal: The dentist will check the sealant to ensure it fits properly and that you can bite comfortably with it.
It is not painful and lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.
Treatment with Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are often applied to children’s teeth to prevent cavities in their teeth. Nevertheless, they are also applicable to adults, especially to those having deep grooves or fissures on their molars.
Sealants are typically applied when children are around the age of 6, as this is when their first permanent molars begin to emerge. They are also used around age 12, when the second molars come in. Applying sealants at these stages helps prevent dental decay early on.
In the case of adults, dental sealants can attach to the teeth that are not decayed or filled. This helps prevent situations where the teeth may require more extensive treatments, such as fillings or crowns, in the future.
Diagnosis: When Are Dental Sealants Necessary?
Dental sealants are not suitable for everyone. Your dentist in Bel Air, MD, will examine your mouth to determine whether dental sealants are needed. In most cases, sealants are recommended for:
- Children and Adolescents: A good candidate would be someone with newly erupted permanent molars that have deep grooves, which can make cleaning difficult.
- Adults: Sealants can protect you when you have very deep grooves in your molars or you are at an increased risk of cavities because of many factors, such as diet, use of tobacco, and dry mouth.
The procedure of dental sealing depends on the risk of a person developing cavities, the prevalence of poor oral hygiene, and how the person maintains their teeth.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
The lifespan of a dental sealant depends on the type used and how well the patient maintains their oral hygiene. Typically, sealants can last between 5 to 10 years. To ensure they remain effective, it’s important to visit your Bel Air, MD, dentistry regularly for checkups. If any cracks or chips are found, the dentist can reapply the sealant to continue protecting the tooth.
Dangers and Risks of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can be an effective preventive measure, but there are some important factors to consider:
- Health Concerns: Some dental sealants previously contained BPA (Bisphenol A), which raised health concerns. However, modern dental sealants no longer use BPA, and only safe materials are used in reputable dental clinics.
- Overuse: Sealants should be applied to teeth without cavities. It can seal the bacteria and worsen the situation in the case where it is applied to teeth that have the presence of decay.
- Sensitivity: There may be some slight tooth sensitivity following sealant application, but this should go away quickly.
Before and After: Dental Sealants
Without dental sealants, your molars are more susceptible to plaque buildup and cavities due to their deep grooves. These grooves are effectively sealed after applying sealants, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling in them. As a result, dental sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities forming in these vulnerable areas.
Conclusion
Dental sealants are the most effective preventive methods when it comes to the cavity war, particularly among children and individuals with grooved teeth. Dental sealants are an inexpensive, easy, and quick solution to help keep your teeth healthy and free of cavities for several years. While regular dental visits are still important for good oral care, having sealants provides an added layer of protection to ensure your teeth remain well-sealed and decay-free.
FAQs
How are dental sealants different from fillings?
Dental sealants are applied to the surfaces that do not have a cavity, while fillings are applied to replace a tooth that has already been affected by a cavity
Can dental sealants be used on adult teeth
Yes, the adult teeth can be sealed with dental sealants, especially when they have deep grooves that cannot be thoroughly cleaned.
How much do dental sealants cost?
Dental sealant costs typically range from $30 to $60 per tooth, depending on the dental office and location. Many insurance plans cover sealants for children, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Are dental sealants safe for children?
Yes, dental sealants are safe for children. They are widely recommended as a preventive treatment to protect children’s teeth especially their permanent molars from cavities by sealing the deep grooves where food and bacteria can get trapped.
