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Protect Teeth With Sealants
Some teeth have fine grooves or pits that accumulate plaque, not because the person doesn't brush, but because the grooves are too narrow to allow even one bristle into them. When plaque accumulates, it can lead to cavities and other types of tooth decay. To apply sealants, a plastic material is applied to the tooth, filling these narrow grooves and preventing the cavity-causing buildup. Sealants can help prevent cavities from forming in these deep grooves.
Prevent Cavities Before They Start with Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin, protective plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars—areas with deep grooves where more than 75% of tooth decay begins. These grooves, known as pits and fissures, are difficult to clean and prone to trapping food and bacteria. Sealants help by filling and sealing these grooves, creating a smooth, easy-to-clean surface that reduces the risk of cavities.
Although sealants provide long-lasting protection, they should be checked regularly during dental visits for wear or chipping to ensure they stay effective.
Reasons for Sealants
Sealants add an extra layer of protection against cavities by covering the deep grooves and pits in teeth that are most vulnerable to decay. They are especially helpful for children, teens, and even adults or young children with cavity-prone teeth. Here are some key reasons to consider dental sealants:
- Children and Teenagers: Recommended as soon as the first permanent molars appear (around age 6) and throughout the cavity-prone years of 6–16.
- Adults: Ideal for teeth with deep grooves or pits that haven’t yet developed decay.
- Young Children (Baby Teeth): Sometimes used if baby teeth have deep grooves and are at higher risk of cavities.
What Do Sealants Involve?
The application of dental sealants is quick, painless, and typically takes only a few minutes per tooth. The process begins with thoroughly cleaning and drying the teeth. Cotton or another material is used to keep the area dry. A mild etching solution is then applied to the tooth surface to slightly roughen the enamel, allowing the sealant to bond more effectively. After rinsing and drying the tooth again, the sealant is carefully painted onto the chewing surface, filling the deep grooves and pits. It then hardens either naturally or with the help of a curing light, depending on the material used.
To help your sealants last as long as possible, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene, eat a balanced diet, and maintain regular dental checkups.
