As time goes by, oral health has become more and more relevant as a contributor to overall health and wellness. In particular, dental sealants are becoming increasingly popular to protect teeth and prevent cavities from developing.

This article aims to provide a better understanding of what dental sealants are, how they work, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to take care of them.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin coatings usually made of plastic that dentists apply to the surfaces of the molars and premolars, which are the teeth located at the back of your mouth.

The coating fills the grooves, or fissures, on the chewing surface of these teeth, which are prone to accumulate food particles and attract bacteria. By covering the fissures, dental sealants act as a barrier between the teeth and the oral environment, preventing bacteria from entering and causing decay.

How do Dental Sealants Work?

The process of applying dental sealants is simple and painless, and it does not require anesthesia or drilling. First, the dentist cleans the teeth thoroughly and dries them with an air compressor or a cotton roll.

Next, they put an acidic solution on the tooth surface to roughen it up and help the sealant stick better. After a few seconds, they rinse the tooth and dry it again. Finally, they apply the sealant material in liquid form and use a special curing light to harden it into a solid, protective layer.

Advantages of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants have several advantages when it comes to preventing tooth decay and maintaining oral health:.

Efficacy: Dental sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80% in the first two years of application, and up to 50% after four years.
Cost-effectiveness: Dental sealants are a relatively affordable preventive measure that can save money in the long run by avoiding costly restorative treatments such as fillings, root canals, and crowns.
Non-invasive: Dental sealants do not require drilling, anesthesia, or any other invasive procedure that can cause pain or discomfort.
Quick and easy: The process of applying dental sealants usually takes only a few minutes per tooth, and the patient can resume their normal activities immediately.
Safe and durable: Dental sealants are made of biocompatible materials that do not contain harmful chemicals or toxins. They can last up to 10 years with proper care and maintenance.

Disadvantages of Dental Sealants

Despite their numerous advantages, dental sealants also have some drawbacks that patients should be aware of:.

Validity: Dental sealants are only effective on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, and do not protect the entire tooth from decay.
Timing: Dental sealants are most effective when applied soon after the permanent molars and premolars appear, which is usually between the ages of 6 and 14. If the decay has already started, the sealant will not be able to reverse it.
Maintenance: Dental sealants require proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Without adequate care, they can chip, crack, or wear off over time.
Availability: Not all dentists provide dental sealant services, and not all insurance policies cover them, which can make them inaccessible for some patients.

Taking Care of Dental Sealants

After the dental sealants have been applied, patients need to take good care of them to ensure that they stay intact and effective. Here are some tips for maintaining dental sealants:.

Brush and floss regularly: Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day can help remove plaque and food particles that can accumulate on the surface of the sealants and cause decay.
Avoid hard and sticky foods: Chewing on hard objects like ice or biting into sticky foods like caramel can damage or dislodge the sealants, so it’s best to avoid them.
Use a mouthguard: If you engage in high-impact sports or teeth-grinding, wearing a mouthguard can protect your dental sealants from getting damaged.
Follow up with your dentist: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can detect any issues with the sealants early on and help you maintain good oral health.

Conclusion

Dental sealants are an effective and affordable way to prevent tooth decay and maintain oral health. They are safe, non-invasive, and require minimal maintenance.

However, they are not a replacement for proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, and they have limitations in terms of the area they can protect and the age at which they should be applied. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of dental sealants and following the recommended care instructions, patients can ensure that their teeth remain healthy and protected for years to come.