Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings painted on the chewing surface of the back teeth where cavities usually begin. The sealant helps prevent tooth decay by keeping germs and food out of the tiny grooves and pits in tooth enamel. These pits and grooves develop from chewing and are vulnerable to decay.
Recommended for children, teens, and young adults
The American Dental Association recommends that all children have sealants applied as soon as their permanent molars appear, generally between the ages of five and seven. Teenagers and young adults who do not have decay or fillings in their molars may also protect their teeth with sealants.
Sealants are painted on as a liquid and quickly harden to form a shield over the tooth. First, the tooth is cleaned and dried. A solution is then put on the tooth that will help the sealant adhere. The tooth is then rinsed and dried and the sealant is applied. In just a few seconds, the sealant hardens and with regular dental checkups, can last up to 10 years.
Costs and benefits
Sealing one tooth usually costs less then filling one tooth. Sealants can mean significant financial savings for the future: for the cost of fillings, crowns, or caps used to repair decayed teeth. Of course, the biggest reward is healthy teeth. Sealants, along with regular dental checkups, regular flossing, and brushing with fluoride toothpaste can prevent almost all tooth decay. With proper care, teeth can last a lifetime. For more information or to schedule an appointment call the 7 Day Dental Offices of Dr. Le today.
