Cavities can occur for multiple reasons. There can be times when even after regular brushing and flossing; your teeth may be subject to decay and cavities. This happens because your brush cannot reach every nook and corner of the mouth to remove food particles and plaque. As a result, the acid from the plaque affects the teeth enamel, leading to tooth cavity. Dental sealants are the ones that can protect your teeth and prevent such possibilities.
Dental sealants are clear or white thin coating which when painted on the chewing surface of your teeth can prevent tooth decay. This coating forms a protective layer over the enamel, protecting the surface. Sealants are mostly applied to the permanent premolar and molar teeth as they have deep fissures and grooves. These are the teeth where the brush cannot reach properly, and food keeps accumulating in the gaps causing cavities. Although fluoride can prevent decay, dental sealants provide an extra shield.
Who Needs Sealants?
Children and teenagers are the ones who need sealants the most. Irregular and improper brushing and oral care practices among teenagers and children make their teeth vulnerable to tooth decay. That is why dentist always recommends parents to get children's teeth sealed with dental sealants.
Even in some cases, sealants may also be applied on baby teeth if depressions and grooves are detected. Adults can also benefit from dental sealants even without any decay.
The procedure of Dental Sealant Application
The complete method of dental sealant application takes place in the dental clinic. Here are the steps of sealant application:
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Firstly, your dentist will clean the teeth that need sealant.
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Next, using cotton or any absorbent material, the teeth will be dried.
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The third step involves the application of an acid solution on the chewing surface to make it rough.
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Again the teeth will be rinsed and dried for the final step.
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Lastly, the dentist will apply sealant on the teeth enamel to seal the gaps or surface grooves.
Benefits of Sealants
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Unlike any other dental procedure, application and maintenance of sealants are simple and easy.
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If applied correctly, sealants can stay for a lifetime.
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There is no need for frequent replacements.
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It is painless especially beneficial for children.
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Sealants are safe and efficient in preventing tooth decay.
How Long Do Sealants Protect Your Teeth?
A sealant is capable of protecting the teeth for up to ten years with regular dental checkups and oral care. According to the CDC, sealants can be retained for up to nine years in the mouth. It also reports that dental sealants successfully prevent 80% of the cavities for the first two years of its application.
How to Take Care of Sealants?
Your child’s regular oral hygiene practices don’t end with getting teeth sealed. They should carry on brushing and flossing daily and also sit for professional cleanings as well. You must keep an eye on your child’s sealant to track signs of wearing out if any.
Consult Your Dentist
If your child needs dental sealants, then book your nearby dentist’s appointment without further delay. You can visit India Dental World to get the best dentist for your dental problems any day.