When it comes to dental health, one of the most important things you can do is keep your teeth clean. But did you know that there are other ways to help protect your teeth from cavities and decay? Dental sealants are one of them! They can be a great way to prevent dental problems, and in this blog post, we will discuss what they are, how they work, and who should get them. Keep reading for more information!
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin coatings of plastic, usually resin or glass ionomer, which is applied to the grooves and pits on the chewing surface of your teeth. The purpose of these sealants is to provide an extra layer of protection against bacteria and sugar in food particles from getting into the teeth and causing damage.
How Do Dental Sealants Work?
Dental sealants provide a physical barrier between the tooth enamel and the food particles, preventing them from attaching to the tooth surface. The sealants harden and form a protective shield over the teeth, which prevents bacteria and sugars from getting into the grooves of the teeth and causing damage.
What Are the Benefits?
There are a number of important benefits that come along with dental sealants. Some of the top ones include:
- Prevention of cavities and decay: Since they form a barrier between the tooth enamel and food particles, they help to prevent the buildup of bacteria and sugars on your teeth, reducing your risk for cavities and decay.
- Easier brushing: The sealant forms a smooth surface on your teeth, making it easier for you to brush away food particles and bacteria.
- Long-lasting protection: They can last for years with proper care.
As you can see, dental sealants can be a great addition to your oral hygiene routine. But who should get them?
Who Should Get Dental Sealants?
They are typically recommended for children and adolescents, as they are more prone to cavities and decay due to their developing teeth. However, in some cases, they may be appropriate for adults as well.
The reason that adults don’t normally get dental sealants is that they are more of a preventative procedure, meaning they don’t treat dental problems. So, if an adult were to get sealants put on decaying teeth, the decay would just continue under the sealants. This can give patients a false sense of security when it comes to their oral health, and cause them to miss out on some much-needed treatment.
The Bottom Line
Dental sealants can be a great way to prevent cavities and decay in children and adolescents. However, it’s important to note that they are more of a preventative measure, and are not a substitute for regular dental care for adults. If you think that they may be right for you or your child, talk to your dental health practitioner about the benefits and risks. They’ll be able to help determine if they are a good option for you.
Think dental sealants may be right for you? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Hale Wellness Dental Studio today.