Prevention is better than cure! The same holds true for dental problems. Preventive measures taken to avoid the occurrence, recurrence, or to halt the progression of any dental problem have proven to improve your oral health dramatically. 

A Greenbelt general dentist offers comprehensive preventive measures in the form of sealants to keep dental problems at bay!

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, protective liquid coatings applied or painted onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (premolars and molars). The sealant is carefully cured to harden, which protects the teeth from cavity-causing bacteria. 

The dental sealants are made up of medical-grade:

  • Resins (plant or synthetic)
  • Glass ionomers (glass powder mixed with a water-soluble acid)

Children and teenagers are the most popular candidates for dental sealants. However, adults without decay or fillings in their molars can also benefit from this treatment. 

What is the purpose of dental sealants?

Posterior teeth, such as premolars and molars, consist of deep grooves on their occlusal surfaces. This favors the entrapment of plaque and bacteria, which lead to dental caries and other gum diseases. 

Regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate plaque, food debris, and bacteria from these deep grooves. The harmful toxins and acids produced seep into the deeper tooth layers and significantly increase your risk of dental problems. Sealants play a major role by forming a protective layer over the surfaces and blocking the entry of harmful bacteria into the tooth layers. 

How are dental sealants beneficial?

Dental sealants are popular preventive measures due to the following benefits:

  • These are cost-effective
  • They seal the deep grooves of the occlusal surfaces effectively 
  • They find their application in both children and adults
  • Simple and painless procedure
  • Saves time from extensive dental procedures
  • Prevents a wide range of dental problems

How are dental sealants applied?

Applying dental sealants is a simple and painful process. It usually takes 5 to 10 minutes for your dentist to apply the sealant. 

Your dentist will:

  • Clean your teeth thoroughly 
  • Dry your teeth and isolate them to prevent moisture 
  • Apply a coat of acid etching solution on the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of your teeth. This roughens the surfaces, enabling the sealant to bond well. 
  • Rinse and dry your teeth.
  • Pain a coating of the sealant material on the enamel so that it can bond directly to your tooth. 
  • Target a curing light on the surface to harden the sealant. 

Takeaway

Dental sealants are a lot like protective shields that protect your teeth from disease-causing bacteria. They can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, giving you the best chance for healthy teeth and gums.