Dental sealants were introduced to the public in the 1960s and are used to prevent initial caries in both young children and young adults. These sealants are meant to reduce the risk of dental caries by approximately 80%.
Early intervention is key!
Why might your dentist suggest a sealant for your child’s teeth? This early intervention step is discussed in order to attack a problem head-on before it becomes a serious concern. Since food particles and sugars get trapped in the deep grooves and fissures of your teeth where your brush has a hard time reaching, these become a source of bacteria that weakens the enamel. Consequently, weakened enamel can result in a hole in the tooth, which is also known as a cavity.
By going to the dentist regularly (we suggest every six months), your dentist can monitor the first and second molars, and if they start showing signs of problems, recommend a dental sealant be put on the chewing surfaces.
What are dental sealants exactly?
A dental sealant is a liquid plastic that is placed on the chewing surface of your clean molar and is hardened using a curing light. The sealant flows into the deep grooves of the tooth to protect it from acid by sealing out bacteria and food particles.
Sealants are easy to apply and can last about 10+ years. They are most effective within the four years immediately following the dental procedure and help protect the chewing surface from decay, giving the child ample time to grow and learn how to properly care for his or her teeth by brushing regularly and the right way and eating healthy foods.
Dental sealants are the first line of defense against cavities for many children.
Sealants can fail—so proper dental care is still up to you!
Any procedure has the risk of failing—it’s just life. Nothing is 100%. However, with your routine dental exams, your dentist will take the time to check and monitor your sealant. If a replacement is ever needed, he or she will be able to handle this.
Dental sealants can also fail from a lack of proper nutrition. Consuming sugary foods and liquids at a high rate can easily make your sealant fail. The success of your dental sealant will in part be controlled by how well you continue to care for your teeth with proper hygiene and nutrition.
Sealants aren’t just for children—some dentists even recommend them for adults!
The ADA states that both children and adults can benefit from sealants. Sealants are an excellent method of preventing decay and are a much easier and less invasive way of treating teeth before a problem arises. However, as the procedure may not be deemed necessary by insurance for adults, some patients may refuse the restorative treatment. But, if you want to care for your teeth and avoid the potential for cavities to arise, dental sealants are an excellent option for you.
Speak to your Complete Dentistry of Orland Park dentist today about dental sealants. If you have children at risk of cavities forming, your dentist has probably already brought up sealants. But what about for yourself? You can prevent problems before they even arise—preventive care is the best way of taking care of your teeth and your body!
