As a way to prevent cracks, pits and cavities in children, dental sealants are often recommended by a cosmetic dentist or primary dentist, like Dr. Mjahed in Monroe, NC. The United States Department of Health and Human Services has suggested that this product be recommended to patients and parents, in the hopes of increasing the amount of children and teens who have received sealants as a protection and prevention method. Adults are also able to receive this product if they think it would be beneficial to them.
What Is It?
Dental sealants are a barrier in essence. It is applied to mainly the back teeth, where the premolars and molars are. Decay most often occurs here, which is why preventative dentistry suggests this plastic coating is used. While brushing and flossing regularly is important and does remove plaque and other debris from the mouth, toothbrush bristles often cannot get all the way back to the molars and into those small grooves in the back of the mouth. As food and plaque builds up there, this can lead to cavities and bacteria growth. Sealants seal out the plaque and food that accumulates here.
Application Process
A cosmetic dentist can apply a sealant to the teeth and the process is actually very simple. Basically, the sealant is painted onto the teeth using a brush. It bonds directly to the tooth and after a few minutes, it will be completed hardened onto the tooth’s surface. The resin molds right into all of the cracks and grooves on the tooth and will act like a protective barrier. After the appointment, the patient can go right back to eating, brushing, etc.
Aftercare
After a sealant has been applied to a person’s teeth, a dentist will check the resin at future preventative dentistry appointments. If reapplication is necessary, this can be done. Usually, the product will last for quite a few years before breaking down. It is important to keep up a healthy oral care routine. This includes brushing the teeth twice per day using an American Dental Association accepted toothpaste brand. Flossing should be done daily and a healthy diet is important.
In an attempt to provide excellent dental care to patients of all ages, the use of tooth sealants has been recommended for many years now. Studies have shown that these sealants are beneficial and do help protect the teeth. This is especially true for the younger population, who still are losing teeth and growing in new ones. Also, children’s teeth tend to be a bit softer and more prone to cavities and cracks.
If interested in more information about dental sealants, please contact our dentist office today!