You Need Sealants from Your Dentist for These Reasons

Dental sealants provide a physical barrier between the tooth surfaces and decay-causing bacteria. The sealants fill in the small grooves on the biting surfaces of molars, which are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. This helps to prevent decay and cavities. Sealants are also quick and easy to apply, lasting many years.

Here are some practical reasons to get sealants from your dentist in Newton, MA!

They’re Age Appropriate

Sealants are a thin, clear coating applied to the teeth to guard against bacteria and other harmful substances. They are most commonly used in children but can be used by people regardless of age.

They’re Anti-Cavities

Sealants provide an extra layer of protection for teeth against cavities by covering the tops of molars with a plastic that is the same color as the teeth. This makes it more difficult for bacteria to linger on the surface of teeth and create damage.

Sealants are usually applied to the back teeth, the molars, and the premolars in a painless process that does not require any alteration to the tooth’s surface.

First, the teeth are cleaned to eliminate any hidden food particles or plaque.
Then, the teeth are air-dried before a small amount of gel is placed on them to help with bonding.
Next, the tooth is rinsed and dried again.
Finally, the dental sealant is painted onto the tooth’s chewing surface. The sealant will fill in any pits and crevices, and the tooth will be cured to render the sealant permanent.

Dental sealants can last five to ten years with proper care and hygiene.

They Prevent Deep Grooves

Molars have deeper grooves and indentations on their surfaces, making them more difficult to clean. Even if you brush well, toothbrush bristles cannot reach the grooves and indentations. This means that plaque and food particles can easily collect in these areas. Over time, this can lead to dental decay. Dental sealants can help to prevent this by filling in these vulnerable areas.

They’re Quick, Easy, and Painless to Apply

The process of applying dental sealants is simple. Your dentist will clean and prepare the teeth for the sealant material to be applied.

First, a mild solution is used to roughen the surface of each tooth. This helps the sealant material bond properly to the tooth.

Next, the sealant material is applied to the tooth or teeth. The sealant material can flow into depressions or grooves on a tooth and fills them in. Finally, the sealant material is allowed to harden for one to two minutes. This protects the tooth from bacteria collecting in the pits and grooves.

They’re Durable

As mentioned earlier, sealants can last for many years, but it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid biting hard objects to prolong their life. Get them regularly checked by your dentist just like you did before.

They’re Money Savers

Sealants are a great way to prevent long-term damage in children’s or adults’ teeth since they are much cheaper than dental restorations, and most insurance companies cover them. They are also fast and painless, which makes them a great choice for protecting your child’s teeth.

In Closing

While sealants are a quick, painless, and cost-effective way to protect your teeth from decay, they are not a replacement for good oral hygiene practices, regular dental cleanings, exams, or healthy eating habits. Always practice good oral hygiene, which includes a twice-a-year visit to the dentist for optimum health!