It is well known that cavities can be prevented with routine brushing and flossing. However, dental sealants are another preventive measure against tooth decay.

Sealants are thin, transparent, protective coatings designed to protect teeth from decay. They are placed on the biting surfaces of the back teeth, which often have deep grooves and pits. They form a barrier against the acid-producing bacteria that can damage teeth.

While this preventive dentistry procedure is often associated with children, adults can also benefit from sealants. An office that practices family dental in Greenville, SC, may recommend them for everyone in your family to safeguard your smiles.

How Dental Sealants Help Prevent Cavities

Dental sealants prevent cavities by covering the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars with a tooth-colored plastic. This creates an extra layer of protection that makes it more challenging for bacteria to cling to the surface of the tooth.

The surfaces of molars and premolars have deep grooves and depressions that make them more difficult to clean. No matter how good your brushing technique is, the bristles aren’t long enough to get into the grooves. These areas are the perfect places for plaque and food particles to collect. Without the protection of a sealant, these grooves eventually decay.

Keeping teeth clean also becomes easier when a dental sealant covers the surface. Once the grooves are sealed, the tooth will have a smoother surface. A toothbrush will easily remove food particles and bacteria, making it easier to keep a cavity-free mouth.

Benefits for Children

When a tooth first erupts into the oral cavity, it is more susceptible to cavities. Dental sealants are highly effective in protecting newly erupted permanent molars. They act as a barrier against decay by creating a layer between the chewing surface and food and bacteria.

Having a Greenville family dentistry team apply sealants during childhood will protect your children’s teeth throughout the most cavity-prone time in their lives. Kids are most susceptible to decay between the ages of seven and 14.

Sealants last for many years when properly cared for. Good oral hygiene and routine dental visits can ensure your child has durable sealants for many years.

Benefits for Adults

Adults may be less vulnerable to tooth decay than children because they understand the impact of overeating sugar and poor oral hygiene. However, if their teeth have numerous grooves, they can still benefit from sealants.

Some adults choose dental sealants because they have a family history of cavities or grinding teeth. Teeth grinding causes enamel to break down and increases your risk of decay.

Dentists use tooth-colored material when placing a dental sealant. This creates a seamless look and feel, which can make some people forget they have this protective layer. The sealant will not disrupt your radiant smile or be noticed by others.

Having sealants placed on adult teeth can prevent future decay. Protecting these teeth with preventive restorations minimizes the risk of needing extensive and costly treatment, like fillings or crowns.

Process of Getting Adult or Child Sealants

Getting dental sealants is a quick and painless procedure that usually takes one visit. It is typically completed within one hour.

First, the dental professional completing the procedure will thoroughly remove any plaque and debris. They will apply an acid solution to roughen up the surfaces, which helps the resin material bond better with the tooth.

The teeth are rinsed and dried again before applying the sealant. Then, the liquid material is applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars, flowing into the grooves and crevices where cavities commonly form.

Some materials harden on the tooth’s surface when exposed to air. However, a curing light may be used to harden the material. Within a few minutes, an additional layer of protection forms on the tooth, keeping it safe from decay. Routine dental checkups will ensure these preventive restorations remain intact.

Are sealants worth it?

Dental sealants are safe and well tolerated because they are made from materials compatible with the human body, materials which have been extensively tested for safety and efficacy.

Sealants are valuable tools for preventing tooth decay, especially in children. However, every patient has different needs, so it is important to discuss your options with your dentist. If you want an effective layer of protection against decay, dental sealants may be the best choice for your oral health.

An Affordable and Safe Way to Care for Smiles

If you’re considering dental sealants for anyone in your family, you need an experienced dental team to provide treatment. Monroe Family Dentistry is up to the task! Make a proactive decision to protect your family’s oral health. Contact us to schedule a consultation, and enjoy a healthier, cavity-free smile.