Protective Sealants
- Prevent tooth decay in molars and premolars
- Easy and painless application process
- Can last up to 10 years with proper care
- Suitable for both children and adults
What Are Protective Sealants
Food bacteria and Particles:
These culprits can get trapped in the grooves of your teeth, leading to decay. Sealants smooth out these surfaces, making it harder for them to accumulate.
Acidic wear and tear:
Foods and drinks with high acidity can erode tooth enamel over time. Sealants provide an extra layer of protection, safeguarding your teeth from this wear and tear.
Benefits of Protective Sealants
Enhanced Cavity Prevention
Studies show that sealants can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, especially in children and young adults.
Long-lasting Protection
With proper care, sealants can last for several years, offering extended protection against decay.
Pain-free and Quick Procedure
Applying sealants is a simple and painless process, typically completed in one visit.
Cost-effective
By preventing cavities, sealants can save you money in the long run compared to the cost of fillings and other treatments for tooth decay.
Children
Their developing teeth are more vulnerable to cavities. Sealants offer an additional layer of protection during this crucial stage.
Adults with deep grooves in their teeth
These grooves can harbor bacteria and increase the risk of cavities. Sealants can help smooth out these surfaces and prevent decay.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are made of a plastic material that a dentist or dental hygienist applies to the grooves and depressions on the surfaces of back teeth. These areas are prone to accumulating food particles and plaque, making them common sites for cavities. The sealant quickly bonds into the grooves and depressions, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth.
Dental sealants can be highly durable and provide protection against decay for many years. They can last up to 10 years with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. However, they need to be checked for chipping or wearing at regular dental appointments, and they can be replaced as necessary.
The primary use of a dental sealant is to prevent tooth decay. Sealants are especially beneficial for children and teenagers who are at a higher risk of developing cavities. However, adults without fillings or decay in their molars can also benefit from sealants. The application of a sealant is a straightforward, painless procedure that offers an extra layer of protection to the areas of teeth that are most vulnerable to decay.
No, sealants and fillings serve different purposes and are not the same:
Dental Sealant: It’s a preventive measure applied to the biting surfaces of healthy back teeth to protect them from decay. Sealants are usually clear or white and are not easily visible. They are applied before any decay has occurred or very early in the decay process.
Dental Filling: It’s a restorative treatment used to repair a tooth that has already been damaged by decay. The decayed tooth material is removed, and the cavity is filled with a filling material, such as amalgam, composite resin, gold, or ceramic. Fillings are designed to restore the integrity and function of the tooth.