Dental sealants

Dental sealants are highly slip pieces of plastic resin which can be used to help protect against cavities and decay by covering the back teeth. Dental Sealants are a popular method for protecting teeth as they can be applied quickly by a dentist with minimal discomfort to the patient. The most common recipients of dental sealants are childreen or teenagers and it's thought that they bring about the most benefits in children aged between five and fifteen. Research shows that applying sealants just after the first molars have erupted into the mouth, then there will be less instance of bacteria invading the teeth to cause cavities. In some cases adults may also find dental sealants useful in preventing cavities by protecting against bacteria.

What are dental Sealants?

The sealants themselves are created out of a slim sliver of plastic which, when applied to the molars fills the fissures and pits of your teeth. This helps to form a barrier between your tooth and cavity causing bacteria. Sealants are very discreet and because of their location, right at the back of your mouth, sealants are very difficult to spot. It's also possible to get sealants which are clear, white or tinted to match the natural tooth colour. The most suitable teeth to use sealants on are the permanent molars of which the first set usually erupts intot he mouth around the age of six and the second around the age of twelve. Research shows that it's best to apply the sealant soon after the molars erupt as this can greatly decrease the risk of decay. There's a greater chance of decay or infection occuring the longer bacteria and plaque are allowed to remain on the teeth. Children and teenagers are especially at risk of decay, even if they maintain a decent level of oral hygiene. Acids from foods and fizzy drinks which your child may consume at school have time to rest on the teeth before brushing at night. This gives them a chance to attack gums and teeth, in particular on the chewing surfaces.

How are Sealants applied?

To apply a sealant, your dentist won't have to perform any drilling or remove any part of the existing tooth structure. The sealant process is relatively quick, requiring only a few steps. Firstly your dentist begins by thoroughly cleaning the tooth in question before placing a special gel on the chewing surface for a moment. After washing and drying the tooth the sealant is then painted on. Some dentists will use a special light source at this point which will help the sealant to harden. After around a minute or so the sealant will have formed a complete protective shield. It's usual to notice the sensation of having something new in the mouth but with time you should become used to the feel of the sealant. Sealants last a long time, between three to ten years in most cases. However it's important that you have regular dental check ups to monitor your sealants and reapply them if necessary.

Sealants and other dental care

Just because a sealant is applied, this doesn't mean the wearer can stop brushing their teeth. As sealants are usually only used on the teeth right at the back of your mouth you'll still need to continue with regular brushing and flossing to protect against tooth decay and gum disease. Although sealants will greatly diminish the risk of infection they need to be used in conjunction with a good oral hygiene regime.