Preventing Dental Cavities With Sealants

In the fight against cavities, dental sealants are one of the frontline defenses. Designed from a type of plastic material, the sealants are used as a barrier to prevent cavities from forming. Normally, the back teeth like the molars and premolars can start to decay and break down over time. To prevent this from happening, dentists apply sealants to the chewing area to prevent decay and keep the teeth strong.

Ideally, individuals should brush their teeth and floss every day. By taking care of the teeth, plaque and food particles can be removed from the smooth surfaces of the teeth. Unfortunately, this is not always enough. Toothbrushes are unable to reach every groove and depression in the teeth, so food and plaque may remain after brushing. Sealants are applied to the vulnerable spots on the teeth to keep food particles and plaque from causing cavities.

Getting Dental Sealants

Only a dentist can apply sealants, but the entire process is extremely easy to do. Once the dentist decides that you need sealants, they complete your teeth cleaning and prepare to add the sealants. The plastic resin is painted across the enamel of the tooth. Immediately, it begins to harden and bond with the tooth as it dries. Grooves, fissures, depressions and puts are filled with the resin to make a smooth chewing surface along the back teeth.

After the sealant has been applied, it works as a barrier to protect your dental enamel from acid, food particles and plaque. As long as the sealant remains on your tooth, the tooth will be protected from cavities and decay. Since you obviously still need to chew food during this time, the sealant material is designed to hold up during chewing and drinking. Normally, sealants will last for years before they have to be reapplied by your dentist. Each time you visit the dentist, your dentist will check the sealants to make sure that they are still holding up. If the sealants have fallen off, broken or weakened, your dentist will reapply them to your teeth.

Everyone carries a risk of decay, fissures and pits in their teeth. This risk begins as soon as you are born, so dentists often apply sealants on the teeth of children and teenagers. Children are also less likely to brush their teeth well, so sealants help to postpone decay until the child is old enough to brush their teeth correctly. While dental sealants are often applied to the teeth of children and adolescents, adults can benefit from them as well.

Preventing Tooth Decay

To have a healthy mouth and no cavities, individuals should follow their dentist’s recommendations. A healthy diet and minimal sugary snacks will help to keep the teeth healthy. You should brush at least two times every day with a fluoride toothpaste that has been approved by the ADA. In addition, you should use dental floss every day to remove food particles that become lodged between the teeth. Visit your dentist regularly to spot tooth decay before it is a problem. If sealants are needed, your dentist will be able to recommend the options available for you.