Dental Sealants – What Are They And What Is The Procedure?

Dental sealants are an innovative way to protect teeth against cavities and decay. They provide an extra layer of protection that helps keep the teeth clean and healthy. Sealants are a standard dental procedure for adults and children alike, but what exactly are they, and what does the procedure involve? This article will explain the basics of dental sealants, from what they are to how they’re applied.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a type of protective coating placed on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to help prevent cavities. The goal is to fill in the grooves of teeth so that bacteria, plaque, and food particles cannot get stuck inside them. This prevents tooth decay and helps keep your smile healthy.

Dental sealants (also called fissure sealants) are plastic coatings placed on the surface of the molar teeth.  Dental sealants are usually placed on the biting surface, but they may sometimes be needed on the cheek or tongue side of the teeth if there are pits.

The application process for dental sealants is non-invasive, painless, and relatively quick. Dentists will start by cleaning off any debris from the surface of the teeth before painting an adhesive material across the entire surface area. Next, a sealing liquid will be applied overtop, which hardens into a smooth protective shield after dries. Dental sealants can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on how well you take care of your teeth during that time.

Why Should My Child Have Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are placed to prevent food and plaque from getting stuck in the pits and fissures of the teeth and causing decay.  The grooves of the teeth are difficult to clean and are susceptible to decay.  The material used in dental sealants flows into these pits and fissures, creating a smoother surface that is easier to clean with a toothbrush.  Dental sealants reduce the risk of decay and need fillings by putting a barrier between the surface of the teeth and the plaque.  Some sealants also have fluoride, which helps strengthen the teeth.

What Age Should Dental Sealants Be Placed?

Dental sealants should be placed soon after the teeth come through.  Once the new teeth are entirely through the gums, this is the best time to have the sealants placed.  They are generally placed between 6 ad 14 years of age.  During routine dental visits, your dentist will advise when and if dental sealants should be placed.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants can last up to 10 years.  The sealants can chip or wear away.  The sealants can be repaired or replaced if required.  Your dentist will check your sealants at your regular 6-month checkup appointment.

What Is The Procedure For Placing Dental Sealants?

Applying a dental sealant is a quick and painless procedure.  The teeth are thoroughly cleaned and dried.  The sealant material is placed on the teeth and set with a curing light.

Dental sealants are a preventative measure used to protect teeth from decay and cavities. Placing dental sealants is quick, painless, and relatively inexpensive. Dental sealants are usually recommended for children and teens with permanent molars but can also be beneficial for adults with deep grooves in their teeth or those prone to cavities. If you’re considering having dental sealants applied, here’s an overview of the procedure.

The first step is to prepare the tooth surface by cleaning it with a unique solution that removes all bacteria before applying the sealant. Next, an acid solution will be applied to create tiny pores on the enamel surface, which helps increase the adhesion of the material used for sealing.

Conclusion

Dental sealants are an effective and safe way to prevent cavities in children. They are an inexpensive and easy choice for parents to make to ensure the health of their child’s teeth. Sealants provide a nearly 100% guarantee against developing cavities on children’s molars, making them an ideal choice for parents who want to ensure their children have good oral health.