What You Should Know About Dental Sealants

Posted on: 12 December 2017

You can reduce your chance of developing tooth decay by using dental sealants. Below are some major aspects of dental sealants that you need to know. Use this information to decide whether or not you should have the sealants placed on your teeth.

What They Are

Dental sealants are thin coats of materials, such as plastics, which are placed on the molars. These prevent the accumulation of bacteria or pieces of food on the teeth. Consequently, you will have a reduced risk of developing tooth decay since microorganisms will be unable to destroy your dental enamel by secreting acids onto the teeth.

Who Needs Them

It is advisable to apply dental sealers as early in your life as possible. This preventive measure will ensure that you will stand a higher chance of not losing any of your teeth to decay. The sealants can be applied to the teeth of anyone including children and the elderly.

How They Are Applied

Your dentist or any other dental care provider will clean your teeth first. Next, the teeth will be roughened by applying a gel to ensure that the sealant will efficiently adhere to the molars. That gel is then removed so that the teeth can be dried in preparation for the sealant. The sealant is applied in liquid/paste form. The sealant hardens on its own or a special light can be directed onto the sealant to harden it.

Their Durability

It isn't easy to estimate how long your dental sealants will last because each person is unique. For example, a person who grinds his or her teeth may require sealant reapplication at shorter intervals when compared to another person who doesn't have that condition. However, the chances are high that the sealants will remain effective for several years. Your dentist can check their condition during your routine visits.

Their Impact on Your Dental Care

Your dental care routine should not change just because you have had dental sealants placed on your molars. You will still need to brush and floss as before. Your visits to the dentist should also stay the same after you have had sealants placed on your teeth.

Talk to your dentist in case you would like to place these sealants on your teeth. They can then examine you and assess your suitability for the procedure. Adhere to their instructions so that you can enjoy the full benefits of the dental sealants.

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