Dental Sealants- The benefits that will really make you smile
Over the last few years, the importance of applying dental sealants has increased among everyone. Parents who are not aware of this procedure must educate themselves. This will help in bringing comfort among their children regarding the procedure.
A pediatric dentist or dental hygienist in Bronxville, NY can provide you with complete information about the dental sealants and how they protect teeth.
A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surface of the back teeth- premolars and molars to prevent tooth decay. These are bonded into the grooves of the teeth that act as a protective shield for the enamel of each tooth.
How much you brush and floss your teeth, toothbrush bristles can’t remove food particles from all the grooves. A toothbrush does not reach into all the corners of the back teeth properly. Therefore, sealants protect these vulnerable areas from decay by removing the food and plaque.
Working of sealants
They are the protective barrier for your teeth. When the cavity-causing bacteria meet the leftover food particles, the acid is produced that creates a hole in the teeth. These holes are known as cavities. If the sealant is applied on the back teeth it keeps the food particles out and stops bacteria and acid from depositing on the teeth.
Who is appropriate for sealants?
Dental sealants are the best for kids as well as adults in Bronxville. It is good if you get them as soon as possible. The first molars develop around 6 years of age and second molars around 12 years of age. As soon as the teeth erupt, the chances of developing decay and cavity are very high. Therefore, sealants help in preventing cavities and decay from the permanent molars and premolars. This will save you time and money in the future.
In some cases, dental sealants are considered for baby teeth also if there are signs of deep grooves. Baby teeth are very important to provide the proper spacing for permanent teeth. They also keep the teeth healthy and save from early losing.
The application procedure of sealants
The process of applying sealants is simple and painless. The dentist or hygienist will take a few minutes for applying a sealant to each tooth. The steps are-
- The tooth surface is properly cleaned which needs to be sealed.
- Each tooth is dried with cotton or some other absorbent material.
- Ac acid solution is applied to roughen the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This helps the sealant stick to the natural teeth properly.
- After some time, the dentist will rinse the teeth with the gel and dries the tooth before applying sealant.
- The sealant is applied onto the tooth enamel that bonds directly and hardens. Sometimes, for hardening, a special curing light is also used.
Sealants do not cause any side effects. These are placed over the decayed tooth to prevent further damage. As they are clear, the dentist can check the tooth to ensure that sealants are working. They protect the teeth from decay for up to 10 years or more with proper care. You need to go to the dentist for regular check-ups to ensure they are not chipping or wearing. If required, the dentist may replace the sealants.
Usually, insurance companies cover the cost of sealants and mostly for people below 18 years. To know whether sealants are covered under your plan, check with the dental insurance.
Benefits of dental sealants
Dental sealants not only improve the smile but also the quality of life.
- Protect the surface of the teeth from harmful acids which can penetrate the tooth enamel.
- Reduces the chance of cavities at least by 80%.
- A single dental sealant provides long-lasting protection before need of replacement arise.
- Usually, sealants are not recommended for infants or young children besides some exceptional cases. They are placed above 6 years age children and beneficial in case of permanent molars.
- Sealants do not harm the teeth look because they are applied with a clear coating.
Sealants are considered the best dental care for kids as well as adults in Bronxville. It prevents cavities and tooth decay and keeps up the beautiful smile.