Pros and Cons of Dental Sealants

Pros and Cons of Dental Sealants

Oct 01, 2021

Introduction

Poor oral hygiene, taking sugary drinks, and frequent snacking increase the risk of developing cavities. Dental sealants can protect the tooth surface by forming a protective barrier over the chewing surface. However, an improper application can affect oral health. Therefore, you need dental sealant experts. Getting dental sealants in Bronxville, NY, is safe, efficient, and you can rest assured of proper application.

In this article, we discuss the pros, cons, and maintenance of dental sealants. Read on for more information

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants in the 10708 area are suitable for preserving teeth from tooth decay for years. Sealants are thin plastic coatings that can protect the chewing surface of premolars and molars. They form a protective cover that blocks out germs and food.

Who Needs Dental Sealants?

Children, teenagers, and adults can all get dental sealants. In children, dental sealants are most appropriate when growing molars and premolars due to their high likelihood of developing cavities—furthermore, only adults who do not have fillings 0r tooth decay qualify for sealants.

Pros of Dental Sealants

Getting dental sealants near you has benefits, including;

  • Protecting the tooth enamel, preventing cavities, and forming a protective shield that blocks out plaque and bacteria buildup
  • Providing long-term protection. Your dental sealants can last between 5 and 10 years, depending on oral hygiene and maintenance. It will be best if you visit a dentist regularly for oral examinations
  • Easy maintenance and repair. Dentists can always add extra sealant if it wears out
  • Painless procedure. Sealant applications do not take long, and you don’t need an anesthetic for the procedure
  • Maintaining oral health. Dental sealants protect corners you may not reach when brushing or flossing

Cons of Dental Sealants

Although dental sealants are beneficial in promoting oral health, there are still some downsides, including;

  • Sealants are not suitable for decayed teeth or dental fillings
  • Dental sealants may cause severe oral problems if applied over tooth decay. Therefore, you need to get dental sealants near Bronxville for a professional touch.
  • Dental sealants are not a long-term solution. They can only last between 5 and 10 years.

How Are Dental Sealants Applied?

Medical grade resin, a material similar to fillings, is used in making dental sealants. Sealants are runny, and they have a transparent or thin white color. When you get dental sealants in the 10708 area, a dentist will;

  • Thoroughly clean any tooth that requires a sealant
  • Use cotton or any absorbent material to dry the teeth
  • Apply an acid solution to the teeth chewing surface for proper bonding of the sealant
  • Rinse and dry the teeth
  • Paint the sealant on the tooth enamel and use a special curing light to harden it.

Can Dentists Remove Dental Sealants?

Improper sealant application is subject to saliva contamination; this increases the risk of plaque and bacterial buildup. Lack of experience, low patient cooperation, and inadequate sealant can lead to its failure. In case of dental sealant failure, the dentist has to remove the sealant and reapply it correctly.

Steps in dental sealant removal include;

  • Scraping off sealant, food particles, and plaque from tooth’s surface
  • Removing any form of moisture from the tooth
  • Etching and cleaning the tooth surface
  • Drying the tooth and applying the sealant correctly

Maintenance of Dental Sealants

Without proper maintenance, you may still develop gum disease along the gum line without adequate care. You can maintain your sealants by maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash.

Conclusion

Dental sealants with proper oral hygiene can prevent cavities and boost your oral health. You can get dental sealants near Bronxville in no time. Reach out today for an efficient and safe application.

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