There are many tools and techniques to keep your smile bright and healthy. One of the most effective—yet often overlooked—preventive measures is using dental sealants. It’s a simple part of proactive care that can ensure that every member of your family enjoys optimal dental health. Here’s what you should know about sealants and when they should be used.
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). These teeth have grooves and pits that can trap food particles and bacteria, making them prone to cavities. Sealants act as a barrier, preventing these particles from settling in and causing decay.
Dental sealants are typically used after a patient, often a child or teenager, has noticed their permanent molars and premolars are fully erupted. Applying sealants soon after these teeth come in can provide a protective barrier during these cavity-prone years. Sealants are also beneficial for adults who have not developed cavities or fillings in their molars, offering an added layer of protection against decay.
Additionally, dental sealants can be used for patients who are at higher risk of tooth decay. This includes people with a history of cavities, those with diets high in sugars and carbohydrates and those with less access to regular dental care. By applying sealants, we can significantly reduce the risk of decay in vulnerable areas, promoting better oral health and preventing more complex dental issues in the future.
The benefits of dental sealants
Here’s why dental sealants are a great tool for protecting your oral health:
- Effective cavity prevention: Sealants provide an extra layer of protection against cavities. By sealing the areas where food and plaque accumulate, sealants reduce the risk of decay.
- Simple and painless application: The process of applying dental sealants is quick and straightforward. After cleaning your teeth, your Fioritto dentist will apply a special gel to prepare the tooth surface. The sealant is then painted on and hardened with a special light. This entire process takes only a few minutes per tooth, and does not require any invasive procedures.
- Long-lasting protection: Once applied, dental sealants can last for several years before needing reapplication. Regular dental check-ups will ensure that your sealants are in good condition and provide an opportunity for touch-ups if needed.
- Ideal for both children and adults: While dental sealants are often associated with children and teenagers, they are beneficial for adults as well. Anyone with deep grooves in their molars can benefit from the added protection that sealants provide. For children, applying sealants as soon as their permanent molars come in can set them up for a lifetime of healthier teeth.
- Improve your oral hygiene: Dental sealants are not a replacement for brushing and flossing but rather a complementary measure. They offer additional protection in areas that are hard to clean thoroughly with a toothbrush.
Dental sealants are a proactive step toward maintaining a healthy smile for years to come. If you’re interested in learning more about dental sealants or scheduling an appointment, contact the friendly team at Fioritto Family Dental today!