What are Dental Sealants and how do They Help Teeth?
Dental sealants are very common which dentists use to seal the teeth off and prevent cavities. These are plastic coatings which are placed on the chewing surface of the permanent back teeth i.e. the molars and premolars. It helps to protect them from decay.
There are a few things you need to know about dental sealants-
How do Dental Sealants Work?
Bad bacteria cause cavities as they feed on the leftover food particles on teeth. Molars are prone to cavities as the naturally occurring pit can easily trap food particles than other teeth.
Seal the pits and fissures which occur naturally in molars with dental sealants and prevent cavities.
Who can get Dental Sealants?
Usually, dental sealants are applied to children when adult molar start erupting between the ages of 6 and 12. Sealants help in keeping away the food particles out of the pit and fissures in molars.
Adults can also have sealants but it is not common. They get sealants because their teeth are prone to cavities.
What Kinds of Sealants are Popular?
Dental sealants are made of a composite liquid resin which is cured by light or chemical exposure to adhere to the tooth. They contain a small, trace amount of BPA which usually do not cause any harm. If you touch a receipt or handling makeup powder than dental sealants, you get more exposed to BPA.
How long do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants can last for up to 10 years with proper oral care. The pediatric dentist will inspect your child’s sealants to see if they are working properly. The dentist will replace the dental sealant if they are not working properly.
Do Dental Sealants Hurt?
Dental sealant is a quick and painless process. The drilling or scraping is not required. The dentist will clean the tooth and apply a gel-bonding agent. Then the sealant is applied and cured with a special blue light or chemical rinse. Once the bonding gets dry, the dentist will clean the leftover residue and procedure is complete.
