The purpose of a dental sealant is to protect your teeth from spreading decay. It can be tough to get into the grooves of a tooth while brushing, so they are often most vulnerable to decay. For that reason, a sealant can stop any issues from turning into a full blown cavity. Children and adults can both qualify as candidates for sealants.
What is a dental sealant?
A dental sealant is a substance administered onto the top of a tooth by a dentist. After application, the sealant hardens to coat the tooth. Dentists check to see if the sealant is complete by shining an ADA approved light on the tooth in the office after application.
Why should I get dental sealants?
Preventing tooth decay and cavities comes first, but sealants are always an option as well. Dental sealants stop bacteria and other foreign substances from entering the tooth through cracks or openings developed by preliminary decay. If a tooth seems vulnerable, it is a great option to help protect it from much more serious issues in the future. Molars in the back of your mouth especially are vulnerable to decay.
Children who have experienced no long-term decay are great candidates for sealants, as well adults with minimal tooth decay.
What do I do to care for my sealants?
Caring for your sealants is low-effort, but requires proper habits to keep the teeth clean:
Regular checkups ensure that a sealant not only sticks and protects the tooth, but also that it doesn’t begin to break down. If a sealant is showing signs of wear, a dentist can recommend the best course of action. If needed, a sealant can be reapplied.
Sealants are not an alternative to regular care and cleaning. Patients should still brush twice daily for at least two minutes. Sealants are also not a substitute for flossing. Sealants are meant to provide extra protection to vulnerable teeth, and those teeth as well as all of your teeth, need regular brushing and flossing.
Contact us with questions or to schedule a dental appointment.
