How Do Dentists Do Sealants?

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are a clear or shaded plastic coating applied to the pits and fissures of the molars. They protect teeth from decay by sealing out food and bacteria. They are often used on children’s teeth but also on adults’ teeth. Sealants are quick and easy to apply and can last several years with proper care.

What is the Dental Sealant Procedure?

Getting dental sealants in San Diego, CA, involves a few steps. First, the dentist will clean your teeth and then dry them off. Next, they will etch your teeth with a special acid solution. This helps to rough up the surface of your teeth so that the sealant can better adhere to them. Once your teeth are etched, the dentist will rinse off the acid and then dry your teeth again. They will then apply the dental sealant to your teeth using a brush or other applicator. The sealant will quickly harden and bond to your teeth, forming a protective barrier against cavities and tooth decay.

What Is the Purpose of Dental Sealants?

Teeth sealants are a preventative measure used to protect teeth from decay. They are usually applied to the back teeth, where decay is most likely. Sealants are a barrier, preventing food and bacteria that can cause decay. Sealants can last for several years but will need to be reapplied eventually.

Dental sealants have an 80 percent effective rate in the first year of application. However, the effectiveness reduces with time, so regular dental checkups are required to ensure they are still effective.

Who Needs Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are often used on children’s teeth, which are more prone to decay. However, adults can also benefit from these protective coatings if they are at risk of developing cavities. Also, they need to have healthy teeth free of decay and fillings.

What are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?

The benefit of dental sealant procedures include the following:

• • Cavity prevention

Cavity prevention is the most common dental disease, and keeping your teeth healthy is important. Dental sealants are a cost-effective way to prevent cavities by sealing off the hole where bacteria can enter.

• • Increased comfort

Dental sealants can help with reduced sensitivity to hot and cold, pain, and discomforts, such as during brushing or flossing, that may lead to gum bleeding or tooth loss.

• • Reduced cost

Dental sealants are a low-cost preventive measure that can help you avoid the need for more expensive restorations. They’re also long-lasting, meaning they last for years and sometimes decades.

Dental sealants prevent decay and gum disease from getting into your teeth. This means less plaque accumulation on the surface of your teeth, fewer bacteria in between, fewer cavities, and less tooth damage overall.

How To Care For The Dental Sealants?

Although sealants are durable, they will eventually wear down and need to be replaced. Here are a few ways to care for your dental sealants:

• Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush gently around the sealant area.
• Floss daily. Use floss threaders or pre-formed flossers to remove plaque buildup under the sealant.
• Rinse with water after eating or drinking anything acidic to prevent acid from damaging your dental sealant.
• Avoid using toothpaste with whiteners or tartar control agents because these products contain abrasives that can wear down and damage your dental sealant over time.
• Avoid chewing on ice cubes, hard candy, and other hard foods because they may chip your teeth.
• Visit the dentist for checkups regularly for cleaning and assessment. Your dentist can tell if the sealant is still effective and can reapply it as needed.

How Long do Dental Sealants Last?

Sealants can last for about ten years but must be checked regularly during routine dental visits to ensure they are still intact and effective.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit the Center for Oral Health for more information about dental sealants and what you can expect.