Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are thin coatings that can prevent tooth decay for a long time when painted on the chewing surfaces of premolars and molars. They guard the chewing surfaces with a protective shield that blocks the entry of food and oral bacteria.
Below are some of the commonly asked questions about dental sealants:
What do dental sealants look like?
They can be white, clear, or have tint depending on the sealant used.
What are the main types of dental sealants?
- Glass ionomer sealant
- Resin modified resin sealant
- Resin-based sealant
- Polyacid modified resin
When are dental sealants recommended?
The chewing surfaces of premolars and molars make them susceptible to decay. Sometimes, cleaning these grooves can be difficult, especially when they are deep and narrow. When plaque accumulates in these fissures, the acid produced when bacteria feed on the remaining food particles erodes the enamel. In such cases, sealants can be used to provide additional protection for the pitted areas.
What are the benefits of sealants?
- They offer protection to the pitted areas against foods and plaques
- The application is usually pain-free, and the procedure is quick.
- Sealants promote good oral health by preventing food particles from getting stuck in places that are hard to clean
- They are long-lasting as they can offer protection up to 10 years if well-maintained
- Dental sealants are easy to maintain and care for and can also be repaired when they wear out or get chipped
Who should get dental sealants?
Teenagers, children, and adults can make good candidates for sealants as their teeth have a higher likelihood of developing grooves and depressions. Adults who have no fillings or decay on their molars also can benefit from sealants.
Most children’s dentistry recommends taking your child to a dentist to get sealants as soon as their baby teeth come out and when they get new permanent teeth. This is a preventative measure that helps protect them from cavities through the years.
Who makes the best candidate for sealants?
You are advised to consider using sealants if you have:
- Enamel defects
- Deep fissure grooves
- Dental carries history
How are dental sealants placed?
This orthodontic treatment is usually a painless and simple procedure. First, there is a thorough cleaning of the teeth; then, absorbent material is placed around each tooth to dry it. An acid solution is put on the enamel to give it a rough texture, followed by rinsing and drying the teeth before the sealant is finally installed on the surface.
You can get your dental sealants and teeth whitening in Emerson, NJ, at Starry Dental Clinic, among other cosmetic treatments.
Can dental sealants be repaired?
You can have your sealants repaired when they start to show excessive wear or damage. Your dentist will carry out this procedure.
Will sealants affect the feel of my child’s teeth?
Sealants harden to a clear coating as they directly bond to the tooth, making them undetectable to other people. Children can feel them using their tongues, but they are quick to adapt.
Can sealants prevent all dental diseases?
Sealants cannot prevent all oral diseases, but they will help keep your dental cavity-free. Since the cause of most oral issues is poor dental hygiene, you should try to stick to healthy oral habits such as brushing and flossing your teeth.
Advantages of Teeth Sealants
- They help keep cavities to a minimum
- They are simple to fix
- The procedure is painless
- Sealants are durable and long-lasting
The Disadvantages
- They may fail if applied wrongly
More Info About Sealants
If dental sealants are not appropriately placed, they can cause suppression of enamel. There can be normal wear after placement.
The following are factors that influence how successful your sealant treatment will be:
- Not applying sealants to teeth that have erupted partially
- Preparing teeth properly before placement
- Practitioner’s experience and technique
Maintaining Your Sealants
Our dentist in Westwood recommends the following practices to maintain your sealants.
- Ensure all the surfaces of your teeth are properly cleaned when you brush
- Use a soft and evenly bristled toothbrush, and remember to change it regularly
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices such as regular dental checkups
Since sealants are vulnerable to tear and wear, you should try to minimize the consumption of hard and sticky foods.