Among all the cavities, 80 to 90 percent of cavities occur on the chewing surfaces of permanent teeth. Thorough brushing and flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from the smooth surfaces of teeth, but toothbrush bristles can’t reach into the depressions and grooves to remove food and plaque. Plaque accumulates in these areas, and the acid from bacteria in the plaque attacks enamel, causing cavities to develop.
Sealants also referred to as dental sealants, consist of a resin material that is placed on the chewing surface of the permanent back teeth to help protect them from bacteria and acids that contribute to tooth decay. While fluoride helps prevent decay and helps protect all the surfaces of the teeth, dental sealants add extra protection for the grooved and pitted areas. Sealants can help protect these vulnerable areas by “sealing out” plaque and food debris from the biting surfaces of the teeth.
Sealants can be applied to the molars and premolars at a young age, soon after the permanent teeth erupt. This usually occurs between the ages of 6 to 12 years when the first permanent molars and premolars erupt.
Occasionally, however, individuals jaw size is large enough to accommodate all four wisdom teeth in their proper position and we feels these wisdom teeth will be a functional part of your dentition, sealants may be a good option to prevent them from decaying between the ages of 17 to 25 years.
Steps For Dental Sealing- 1. Tooth surface is cleaned and dried.
- 2. Special gel is applied to roughen tooth surface to help the sealant adhere natural tooth.
- 3. Gel is rinsed and the tooth is dried.
- 4. Dental sealant is applied. A blue light is then used to bond the sealant on to the tooth.
- 5. Dental sealants can be clear, white or have a slight tint depending upon the dental sealant used.
Dental sealants are the smartest, sensible and easiest ways to keep teeth healthy.
We all want our kids to have perfect teeth, but few can maintain them without some help. Sealing molars is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to protect your child’s teeth, for several reasons.
Dental sealants are quick, painless and easy to apply, and they protect the teeth early in your child’s life before they’ve begun to sustain natural wear from years of use.
- 1. Seals Pits and Fissures
- 2. Avoids Plaque Build-up
- 3. Prevents Dental Caries
- 4. Ensures Better Dental Health
- Limiting sugary foods to reduces the amount of decay causing acids.
- Seeing a dentist regularly for checkups to identify potential dental problems early.
- Regular professional cleanings to prevent gum disease.
Dental sealants are a safe and lasting method of preventing tooth decay. Once the teeth are sealed, and your child is following the recommended home care, you can rest assured they’ll enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.