What is Dental Sealants’ Work: Its Benefits & Risk Factors?

Did you know that your back teeth are at a higher risk of developing cavities? The deep grooves and fissures on these chewing surfaces are prime spots for plaque and food acids to hide. This eventually leads to weakened enamel and cavities. But don’t worry, there’s a simple and painless solution to this problem dental sealants!

They are an incredible method to protect your teeth from decay and cavities. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored coating to the pits and fissures of your molars and premolars, creating a physical barrier against bacteria and food particles that can cause tooth decay. Not only are they effective, but they’re also virtually invisible so you won’t even know they’re there.

Hence, if you want to keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free, consider dental sealants as a safe and reliable option.

WHO REQUIRES DENTAL SEALANTS?

Dental sealants are recommended for both children and adults to prevent tooth decay. The earlier you get them placed, the more useful they will be. Permanent molars should be sealed as soon as they erupt, usually around ages 6-12. Deep pits or fissures in baby or permanent teeth put them at risk for decay and qualify them for sealants. This can be influenced by factors such as orthodontic treatment, xerostomia from medication, and poor diet or oral hygiene.

HOW DENTAL SEALANTS WORK?

Dental sealants are like a shield that covers the chewing surfaces of your teeth so that germs and food can’t get in and cause cavities. They work really well. Once you get sealants, they can protect your teeth from 80% of cavities for 2 years and then continue protecting against 50% of cavities for up to 4 years.

BENEFITS OF DENTAL SEALANTS:

1. THEY REDUCE DEEP GROOVES:

Molars typically have deeper grooves and depressions on their surfaces, which can pose a challenge when it comes to cleaning them thoroughly. Toothbrush bristles are often unable to reach these grooves and depressions located on the chewing surfaces of the teeth, leaving many spots susceptible to the accumulation of plaque and food particles.

Bacteria and food debris may build up in these deep areas more readily as well. To prevent dental decay from developing in these vulnerable areas, dental sealants are commonly used.

2. THEY PROTECT AGAINST CAVITIES:

Dental sealants are an effective method to safeguard your teeth from cavities. These sealants are made of a plastic material that is the same color as the tooth and covers the top of the molars. The sealant provides an extra layer of protection by making it challenging for bacteria to remain on the tooth’s surface.

3. APPLICATION PROCESS IS SIMPLE:

Dental sealants are applied without any pain or alteration to the tooth’s surface. The teeth are first cleaned thoroughly to remove any food particles or plaque that may be hidden. After cleaning, the teeth are dried before a small amount of gel is applied to help with bonding.

The tooth is then rinsed and dried again before painting the dental sealant onto the chewing surface. The sealant fills all pits and crevices, and the tooth is cured to make it permanent. Proper care can make the dental sealants last between five to ten years.

4. THEY CAN SAVE YOU MONEY:

Not only is the placement of sealants a quick and easy process, but it is also a much more cost-effective option compared to dental restorations. Sealants are typically included in most general policies of dental insurance companies, making them a preventative choice for children. This can save parents from expensive and painful cavities in the future.

RISK FACTORS OF DENTAL SEALANTS:

Dental sealants are known to contain a small amount of bisphenol A (BPA), which is a chemical commonly present in plastics. Some people choose to avoid BPA products for their children since they have been linked to health problems. However, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), there is no scientific evidence that exposure to BPA in dental sealants has any negative health effects.

The only potential side effect of sealant on teeth is a possible allergy to it. Nonetheless, reactions related to dental sealants are quite rare to occur. Still, it is always recommended to consult your dental professional about any allergies you might have, whether you require sealants or not.

KEY TAKEAWAY:

Dental sealants act as a reliable and protective shield for your teeth, like a sturdy umbrella that blocks harmful bacteria and shields you from the rain. These sealants act as a powerful barrier that guards your teeth against devastating cavities and other dental problems. Even though sealants cannot offer a complete guarantee, they can substantially minimize the likelihood of developing cavities.

In short, they provide a robust layer of defense for healthy teeth and gums. However, make sure to replace them after a certain period in order to maximize their benefits

FAQS

IS THERE ANY RECOVERY TIME AFTER THE PLACEMENT OF DENTAL SEALANTS?

Dental sealants are a hassle-free and convenient way to protect your teeth, and the best part is that they require no downtime. You can return to your daily routine, whether it’s work or school, without any discomfort or inconvenience. On top of that, the placement of dental sealants is also quick and painless, providing long-lasting protection against tooth decay and cavities.

HOW LONG DO TOOTH SEALANTS LAST?

It is important to note that dental sealants have a life span of approximately 3 to 5 years. After this period, it is crucial to replace them to ensure their continued effectiveness. Consistent replacement of these sealants is necessary to maintain optimal results and protect your teeth from decay. So, it is highly recommended to replace them timely and regularly for your dental health.

WHEN CAN YOU EAT OR DRINK AFTER GETTING DENTAL SEALANTS?

After your scheduled appointment, you can go back to your normal eating and drinking habits without any restrictions. However, it’s advisable to be cautious when consuming hard, sticky, or chewy foods as they can cause chipping or erosion of your newly applied sealants. It is also recommended to consume these foods in moderation to ensure the longevity of your sealants.