What Are Dental Sealants and How Do They Protect Your Teeth?

what-are-dental-sealants-and-how-do-they-protect-your-teeth

Dental care goes way beyond brushing and flossing. At times, the deep grooves on back teeth can prove to be troublesome for cleaning, even with the most suitable brushing habits. This is why there’s a need for dental sealants. It’s a straightforward yet super-effective treatment to keep your teeth safe from cavities and decay. Should you be searching for dental sealants near you, your dentist will help you determine whether this treatment is suitable for you.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are thin coatings made of plastic-like material that are applied to the chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars. These teeth at the back present grooves and pits where food particles remain trapped and bacteria flourish, thereby making it very difficult to clean the area. Even if someone brushes regularly, these areas still run the risk of developing cavities. Sealants close those grooves and make for a smooth surface that is far easier to clean. With this protection in place, decay and cavities are kept away at the onset.

How Do Sealants Work?

The main job of a dental sealant is to act as a barrier. Applying a sealant oil to a tooth ensures food, plaque, and bacteria are kept from entering the deep grooves in the teeth. So, there’s a reduced risk of cavities forming in these difficult-to-reach areas. It serves as a protective shield to guard your teeth from harmful substances. If you are interested in receiving this treatment, contacting a dentist in Surrey to explain how the sealants can protect your teeth and offer you better advice would be worth your while.

Who Can Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teens because they are more prone to cavities. However, adults who haven’t had fillings or cavities in their molars can also benefit from sealants. The earlier you get them, the better. Getting sealants applied to your child’s or teen’s molars soon after they come in (usually around ages 6 and 12) helps protect their teeth during the cavity-prone years. However, adults can also benefit, especially if their teeth haven’t been exposed to cavities in the past. Sealants are a simple and effective teeth protection treatment for everyone.

When Should You Get Sealants?

The ideal time to apply sealants is when the permanent molars come in, usually around ages 6 and 12. These are the most vulnerable years when cavities can form. Applying sealants early helps protect the teeth as they go through the most cavity-prone years. However, if you’re an adult and your molars are still cavity-free, it’s not too late to get sealants for protection. A dentist can help assess whether sealants would be a good option based on your specific needs.

Why Are Sealants a Great Option for Teeth Protection?

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, especially in children and teenagers. Dental sealants provide a simple and effective teeth protection therapy that prevents decay before it starts. By sealing off the grooves and pits in the molars, sealants reduce the risk of cavities. This preventive treatment can save you time and money by helping you avoid more serious dental work down the road.

How Long Do Sealants Last?

Sealants are long-lasting and can protect your teeth for many years. On average, they can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, depending on your oral care and how well you take care of your teeth. Sealants don’t require much maintenance, but it’s important to get regular dental checkups to ensure they’re still in good condition. Your dentist will check the sealants during your routine visits and can reapply them if needed. This means you can enjoy long-lasting tooth protection with minimal effort.

Protect Your Smile with Dentists of Chimney Heights

At Dentists of Chimney Heights, we’re here to help you keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free. Our team of dentists is ready to answer your questions and guide you through the benefits of dental sealants. Whether it’s for your child or yourself, sealants offer an easy way to protect your smile and maintain good oral health.

Don’t wait to take action! Call Dentists of Chimney Heights today and schedule an appointment. Protect your teeth now and enjoy a healthier, brighter smile for years to come.

778-601-8946