Dental Sealants

What are dental sealants, who should get them and how long do they last? 

These are some really great questions! Sealants are a thin plastic coating that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth (usually the back teeth) to prevent tooth decay. Molars and premolars have several grooves, ridges, pits and fissures that plaque and food can get trapped in. Thorough brushing can help reduce this plaque from sticking but toothbrush bristles do not reach all the way down into these grooves.

Sealants are very easy to apply and no injections or numbing is needed! The sealant is placed directly onto the tooth surface which then bonds to the enamel and hardens. The sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the enamel from acid wear and decay. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected. 

Anyone can have dental sealants placed. However, sealants are more commonly placed on children. As soon as the first permanent tooth erupts, parents should be requesting that a sealant be placed to protect the tooth. Sealants are only needed on teeth with deep grooves and pits. Your dentist will perform a thorough exam to diagnose which teeth will benefit from a dental sealant. 

Dental sealants need to be checked at every dental cleaning visit for chips or cracks. If a dental sealant is chipped, bacteria can accumulate around the edge of the sealant and cause decay. During your dental exam, you may notice your dentist poking at the chewing surface of your teeth. He is checking the grooves and pits for any spot that may be sticky. This will indicate that a cavity has started and needs to be addressed. 

Ask your dentist if dental sealants will benefit you! Always remember to have your teeth professionally cleaned as directed by your dentist or dental hygienist. The sooner a cavity is detected, the quicker and cheaper this tooth can be fixed!

-A Healthy Body Starts With a Healthy Smile-