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Everyone can still run the risk of dental issues and tooth decay despite proper brushing and flossing. Although there is no single effective method that works to maintain dental health, dental sealants are one proven treatment option that is quick, minimally invasive, and help protect teeth from decay in conjunction with regular cleanings and at-home care. 

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings applied to the teeth’s surface to protect them from decay. As grooves of teeth are hard to clean, they are more susceptible to a buildup of plaque that leads to decay. Sealants make teeth easier to clean by creating a smooth surface that fills deep grooves.

When is the ideal time to perform dental sealants?

Tooth sealants can be applied to children any time between the ages of 6 and 16 or once the six-year molars are present.

Procedure

During the procedure, the selected tooth is cleaned first, and then the sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel, where it will harden and bond to the tooth, thus protecting it from decay. This is a painless, in-office procedure that takes just a few minutes. 

Are Dental Sealants Necessary?

For anyone who wants to preserve their dental health and prevent tooth decay, dental sealants are necessary. Many people have grooves in their teeth that the bristles of the toothbrush cannot reach. As the food remains and plaque sits there, the acids and bacteria in the mouth continue to break them down and make the enamel more porous and more likely to develop a cavity. Dental sealants fill in these grooves, thus making brushing easier and more effective.

Once dental sealants are applied, they should be periodically checked to ensure that they are still intact and serve their purpose. Reapplying them will ensure that the tooth is protected against decay, thus saving the expense of having a more involved tooth restoration procedure in the future if cavities develop.

Dental Sealants for Kids at Balentine plaza dental

 Children are the best candidates for dental sealants, as they don’t lose baby molars until 12 years old, thus ensuring protection for both the baby teeth on the top and the developing adult teeth below. Adults can also consider dental sealants to avoid the risk for cavities due to poor diets and unpredictable lifestyles.

Want to know more about dental sealants or wish to perform the procedure? Call us at (510) 656-4400 or book an appointment online.