Dental Sealants really do work, and if you have children or teens, or have teeth that are not filled, talk to your dentist about placing dental sealants on the chewing surfaces of premolar and molars
According to the American Dental Association, Dental Sealants are used to protect your back teeth against tooth decay. Because the deep fissures or grooves are sometimes difficult to clean with normal brushing and flossing, your dentist may recommend Dental Sealants.
Fissure and pit decay can start early, so children and teens are the most likely candidates, however, adults who do not have fillings or have not already had Dental Sealants can benefit as well.
Made from a plastic like material Dental Sealants are applied to the back teeth with a brush. Dental Sealants actually seal out the food particles that you or your kids and teens are unable to reach with a toothbrush.
Your dentist will paint the Dental Sealants directly on to the enamel on the tooth where it will bond before hardening. The plastic Dental Sealant resin fills in the groves and depressions on the chewing surfaces of premolars and molars helping protect against plaque and acid.
Dental Sealants can hold up under pressure and normal chewing and could last for years before reapplication is required. As long as the Dental Sealant is intact, the surface of your teeth will be protected from dental caries and tooth decay. During your regularly scheduled checkups, your dentist will continue to check on the condition of your Dental Sealants.
Your dentist will usually place the first Dental Sealant on the fissure and groove on the first premolar or molar after the chewing surface of that tooth has erupted beyond the gum. This tooth grows in behind a baby tooth. If the surfaces of these particular teeth are sealed, the Dental Sealant protects the tooth.
Except for wisdom teeth, which do not appear until a teen is between the ages of 16 and 19, back molars will continue to erupt until an adolescent is eleven to thirteen years of age.
Dental Sealants are usually clear or slightly milky looking and are applied to a clean tooth with a rotating brush that has been coated with a paste before your dentist or dental hygienist washes the surface with water. Once the tooth has been dried, an acidic solution will be used before rinsing off in order to create a fine rough surface that allows your dentist to see the fissures and grooves. The tooth will be dried again before a liquid Dental Sealant is applied to the tooth or teeth before hardening with a laser or light.
If you or a family member could benefit from Dental Sealants, schedule an appointment with your dentist today.