How Sealants Protect Smiles from Cavities
How Sealants Protect Smiles from Cavities
Sealants are a typical addition for many young patients with baby teeth. However, adults with permanent teeth can benefit from dental sealants as well. Typically used for permanent back teeth, sealants help protect teeth from decay.
Consider these benefits of sealants to proactively protect your teeth.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are made of a biocompatible plastic that is placed on the chewing surface of molars. The fissures and groves of molars make these teeth vulnerable to decay, as well as make molars difficult to clean with a toothbrush. Plaque can accumulate in these narrow areas and lead to bacterial infections and tooth erosion. Fluoride can strengthen dental enamel, but dental sealants cover these grooved areas by smoothing out the surface and preventing bacteria buildup.
Sealants are recommended for children with baby teeth to protect the chewing surface of their teeth from early childhood cavities. However, adults susceptible to tooth decay can also receive sealants and protect their smile from decay. Sealants can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
When Should You Receive Sealants?
Sealants should be placed once the first permanent molar emerges completely beyond the gum. Molars and premolars continue to erupt between the ages of eleven and thirteen, and the surface of these teeth must be sealed once they’ve erupted for maximum protection.
Sometimes sealants are placed on other permanent teeth if they have similar grooves as molars. If an adult is at risk for caries, sealants can be placed on deep grooves that do not already have fillings or other sealants.
How Are They Placed?
Dental sealants are placed on a clean surface. An acidic solution is placed on the chewing surface to create a rougher texture of the small microscopic areas that are being sealed. Once the tooth is dried, the liquid dental sealant is placed and hardened with a sealing light. The sealant hardens to the known plastic varnish coating and you can chew comfortably.
Sealants are an available proactive treatment to protect your teeth as soon as molars emerge. If you’re looking to protect you and your family’s smile, contact our office today to learn more about sealants and fluoride treatments.