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Sealants are plastic material that are usually applied to the
chewing surfaces of the back teeth premolars and molars. This
plastic resin bonds into the depressions and grooves (pits and
fissures) of the chewing surfaces of back teeth. The sealant acts as
a barrier, protecting enamel from plaque and acids.
Flossing and brushing with thoroughness helps remove food
particles and plaque from the smooth surfaces of your teeth.
However, the bristles in toothbrushes don't have the ability to
reach into the grooves and depressions to take out food and plaque.
Sealants help protect the vulnerable areas of your teeth by "sealing
out" plaque and food.
Is sealant application a complicated procedure?
Sealants are easy for your dentist to apply, and it takes only a
few minutes to seal each tooth. The teeth that will be sealed are
cleaned. Then the chewing surfaces are roughened with an acid
solution to help the sealant adhere to the tooth. The sealant is
then 'painted' onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the
tooth and hardens. Sometimes a special curing light is used to help
the sealant harden.
As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be
protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of
normal chewing and usually last several years before a reapplication
is needed. During your regular dental visits, your dentist will
check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.
Are sealants just for children?
Early in life the likelihood of developing pit and fissure decay
begins early in life and because of this, children and teenagers are
the usual candidates; however, adults are still able to have
sealants.
Key ingredients in preventing tooth decay and maintaining a
healthy mouth are twice-daily brushing with an ADA-accepted fluoride
toothpaste; cleaning between the teeth daily with floss or
interdental cleaners; eating a balanced diet and limiting snacks;
and visiting your dentist regularly. Ask your dentist about whether
sealants can put extra power behind your prevention program.
What exactly are dental sealants?
Thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of
molars are dental sealants. The majority of tooth decay in young
people occur in these surfaces. Sealants are used to cover the
chewing surfaces to prevent decay.
How are dental sealants applied to teeth?
Applying sealants does not require drilling or removing tooth
structure. It is an easy three-step process: A dentist or dental
hygienist cleans the tooth with a special toothpaste. A special
cleansing liquid, on a tiny piece of cotton, is rubbed gently on the
tooth and is washed off. Finally, the sealant is painted on the
tooth. It takes about a minute for the sealant to form a protective
shield.
Which teeth need sealants?
Permanent molars are the most likely to benefit from sealant
application. First molars usually come into the mouth when a child
is about 6 years of age. Second molars appear at about age 12. It is
best if the sealant is applied soon after the molars have erupted,
before the teeth have a chance to decay. For that reason, children
between the ages of 5 and 15 benefit most from sealants.
Are sealants visible to our eyes?
Upon close examination sealants can be seen. Sealants can be
clear, white, or slightly tinted. Because they are used only on the
back teeth, sealants cannot be seen when a child talks or smiles.
Generally, how long will sealants last?
One sealant application can last for as long as 5 to 10 years.
Sealants should be checked regularly, and reapplied if they are no
longer in place.
Will sealants change the feelings in my mouth?
Like anything new that is placed in the mouth, a child may feel
the sealant with the tongue. Sealants, however, are very thin and
only fill the pits and grooves on molar teeth.
Can sealants replace fluoride?
No... fluorides, such as those used in community water,
toothpaste, and mouth rinse also help to prevent decay. Fluoride
works best on the smooth surfaces of teeth. The chewing surfaces on
the back teeth, however, have tiny grooves where decay often begins.
Sealants keep germs out of the grooves by covering them with a safe
plastic coating. Sealants and fluorides work together to prevent
tooth decay.
How do sealants fit into a preventive dentistry program?
Sealants should be used as part of a child's total preventive
dental care. A complete preventive dental program includes use of
sealants, fluoride, plaque removal, careful food choices, and
regular dental care.
Why is it better to have a tooth sealed instead of waiting for decay and
to fill the cavity?
Sealants assist in maintaining sound, intact teeth. Decay
destroys the structure of the tooth. Each time a filling is
replaced, there is additional loss of tooth structure. Fillings
usually last 6 to 8 years before they need replacement. Sealants can
save time, money, and dental treatment in the future.
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