What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a preventive treatment specially designed to protect your teeth from decay. This simple, quick procedure is especially beneficial for children and adults prone to cavities. At Colchester Dentistry, we offer dental sealants as part of our comprehensive dental care plan. Sealants work as a protective barrier, shielding the grooves and depressions of your teeth from various food particles and bacteria. This blog explores what dental sealants are, how they work, and why they are an excellent choice for cavity prevention.

Understanding Dental Sealants

The chewing layers of back teeth (molars and premolars) are covered with thin, protective coverings called dental sealants. These teeth are susceptible to decay because of their deep grooves, which can catch food particles and bacteria. The sealant fills these grooves, preventing harmful substances from sticking to the teeth and reducing the risk of cavities. Sealants are made from safe, durable materials that bond directly to the tooth surface.

Sealants are very commonly applied to children and teenagers with newly erupted permanent teeth, but adults can also benefit from them. They’re handy for individuals who have trouble reaching the back teeth with a toothbrush, making it harder to keep these teeth clean.

How Do Tooth Sealants Work?

Sealants create a smooth, sealed surface over the deep grooves in the teeth. These grooves are particularly common in molars responsible for chewing food. When these grooves are not thoroughly cleaned, tooth decay can result from trapped food particles and germs.

The process of applying sealants on teeth is straightforward and minimally invasive. Here’s how it works:

1. Preparation: The dentist will first properly clean the teeth and dry them thoroughly. This ensures the sealant adheres appropriately.
2. Application: The dentist applies the sealant material to the tooth surface. The material is initially liquid, allowing it to flow into the tooth’s grooves.
3. Curing: A unique curing light is used to harden the sealant, which creates a strong link with the tooth and offers a long-lasting defense against plaque accumulation.
4. Final Check: Once the sealant has been set, the dentist will make the required corrections and ensure a good fit. The quick process doesn’t require drilling, making it a comfortable option for children and adults.

Why Are Dental Sealants Important?

Sealants provide significant protection against tooth decay, particularly in places that are challenging to brush regularly. They can be a highly effective preventive measure, reducing the need for more extensive treatments, such as fillings or crowns, later on. Here’s why dental sealants in Colchester, VT, are a great option:

• Prevents Cavities: Sealants act as a barrier, preventing food particles, bacteria, and plaque from entering the grooves of your teeth.
• Long-Lasting Protection: Once applied, sealants can last several years with proper care. Regular checkups will ensure that the sealants remain intact and effective.
• Cost-Effective: Applying sealants is an affordable, preventive measure compared to the cost of fillings and other restorative treatments. Preventing cavities is much easier (and less expensive) than treating them.
• Protects Hard-to-Reach Areas: The back teeth are particularly vulnerable to cavities because they are harder to clean. Sealants ensure that these hard-to-reach areas are protected.

When Should Dental Sealants Be Applied?

While dental sealants can benefit people of all ages, they are most commonly applied to children and adolescents when permanent molars emerge. The early application provides long-lasting protection before any damage has occurred.

Typically, your dentist will apply sealants as follows:

• Children: Sealants are usually applied to the permanent molars once they come in, typically around age 6, and again around age 12 when the second set of molars emerges.
• Adults: Adult teeth with deep grooves and a high risk of decay can potentially benefit from sealants. Even if you didn’t get sealants as a child, there is still time to start.

The Benefits of Dental Sealants for Adults

While dental sealants are primarily associated with children, adults can benefit from them too. Many adults struggle with cavities in their back teeth due to difficulty cleaning these areas effectively. If you’re prone to cavities or have deep grooves in your teeth, dental sealants can be an excellent way to protect your teeth from further decay.

• Protection for Deep Grooves: Adults with deep grooves in their molars may find that sealants help protect these areas from decay.
• Prevention of Future Cavities: If you have fillings in your back teeth, sealants can help prevent future decay by adding an extra layer of protection.
• Improved Oral Health: Regular dental visits and preventive care, such as sealants, can lower the chance of future, more involved treatments while also assisting you in maintaining your oral health.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

Dental sealants are long-lasting but not permanent. On average, sealants can last for 5 to 10 years before they need to be reapplied. However, a sealant’s lifespan can vary based on a number of factors, including nutrition, oral hygiene practices, and whether or not the sealant has been heavily worn.

At a dental clinic in Colchester, your dentist will check your sealants during routine checkups and reapply them if needed. Regular visits ensure that your teeth remain protected and that any issues with the sealant can be addressed early.

Are Dental Sealants Safe?

Indeed, dental sealants have been around for a while and are safe. The materials used are FDA-approved and have been extensively tested for safety and effectiveness. Your dentist can provide alternatives if you’re concerned about the ingredients, such as BPA (Bisphenol A). The sealant material is applied directly to the teeth and is not absorbed into the body, so it’s safe for both children and adults.

Why Choose a Dental Office for Sealants?

If you’re considering dental sealants, finding a dental office near you that offers this service is a good idea. At a dental clinic, you can receive personalized care that fits your needs and ensures the best results. Sealants are a preventive measure that works best when applied early and maintained regularly, so finding a local dentist can make the process more convenient.

At Colchester Dental Group, we are committed to providing effective preventive care and ensuring your teeth stay healthy for years. Whether you’re seeking dental sealants or another preventive treatment, our team is here to help.

Conclusion

Dental sealants are a great approach to keep your mouth healthy and avoid cavities, particularly in children and adults with deep grooves in their back teeth. Applying sealant on the tooth protects your teeth from harmful bacteria and plaque buildup, reducing the risk of decay. Sealants are safe, affordable, and practical, making them essential to your preventive dental care routine. Contact your dentist in Colchester today to learn more about dental sealants and the way they can benefit your smile.