Protecting our teeth is essential at any age. However, it may be more crucial as a child. As children's teeth are still growing, they’re more prone to wear and tear. That said, it’s important to schedule routine dental checkups and take care of any dental issues that may pop up.One common dental service that many of us receive is a dental sealant procedure. Keep reading to learn more about dental sealants, including how they work and the benefits they provide.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants involve a coating that's applied to our teeth. Many of us receive this procedure at a young age when our teeth are most vulnerable. It’s common to have this coating painted on our back teeth, which is where we do most of our chewing. The main reason to receive dental sealants is to prevent tooth decay.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
Dental sealants consist of a thin, plastic coating that’s painted on teeth. The material bonds quickly, offering a protective shield from food particles and bacteria. This sealant also forms in the nooks and crannies of our teeth, helping to protect our enamel even further.The application process for dental sealants is quick and painless. In fact, it only takes a few minutes to apply the material to each tooth. After this process, dental sealants can protect our teeth for about 10 years. However, it’s important to check them during routine appointments for any chips or excessive wear.
Benefits of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants can do wonders for our dental health. To keep a healthy smile and prevent costly dental problems, sealants are a great solution.Take a look at the many benefits of dental sealants:
Protects Against Cavities
Dental sealants provide a strong coating on our molars, which is where cavities typically form. By having this protective coating, we can expect fewer cavities and improved dental health! As cavities and tooth decay can be painful and costly, dental sealants can ensure our teeth stay in tip-top shape.
Fast and Pain-Free Application
Applying dental sealants is a very quick and painless process. After sitting in the dentist’s chair, we can expect the procedure to be finished within minutes! Also, without any pain, receiving dental sealants is simple and stress-free.
Prevents Deep Grooves
Our molars have deep grooves and depressions, which can cause a buildup of bacteria. After the application of dental sealants, these areas will have a strong protective layer, preventing these problematic deep grooves.
Long-Lasting
Another advantage of dental sealants is that they last for several years! In fact, they can last about 10 years with proper care. To ensure they stay working great for as long as possible, schedule routine dental checkups.
Get Started
To learn more about dental sealants, or to schedule a checkup with an experienced dentist, find your local Ideal Dental office today.