Dental Sealants— An Effective Way of Protecting the Teeth and Preventing Decay
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Dental Sealants— An Effective Way of Protecting the Teeth and Preventing Decay

Decay in the teeth is one of the most common oral problems, and it has been recognized as a cause of tooth loss and tooth disorders. That is why most dental professionals recommend dental sealants, especially for kids.

Dental sealants for children are applied to the teeth to shield them from bacteria and acids.

Although sealants are mostly for kids, adults can also benefit from them if they have healthy teeth, free of decay, fillings, or crowns in their teeth.

Getting dental sealants in Oshawa, ON protects your teeth from decay and helps maintain your smile by preventing dental problems from occurring in your life.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dentists recommend dental sealants to prevent tooth decay. They are thin, plastic strips placed between the teeth and gums. The sealant helps protect the tooth from all types of bacteria that cause plaque buildup and cavities.

Dental sealants are commonly placed on permanent teeth to protect against acid erosion. They can also be used in adults who want protection for their existing teeth. Sealants for adults work similarly in shielding the teeth and protect them against cavities.

Teeth sealants are often used for preventing cavities in children and adolescents. However, the dentist can give you sealants for sensitive teeth if you suffer from severe tooth sensitivity.

What are the Types of Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants can be classified into two types: resin-based and glass ionomer sealants. They both function by creating a barrier between tooth enamel and bacteria, preventing damage to the tooth structure.

Resin-based sealant is the commonly used coating as it is harder and more durable.

Glass ionomer dental sealants are made of three materials; water, polymeric acid, and glass powder. These sealants harden faster than the resin-bonded ones and also release fluoride. However, they are not as durable.

What Does Dental Sealant Application Involve?

One of the most important steps in applying a dental sealant is making sure that the surface on which the mold is being sealed has been properly prepared. This includes cleaning and drying it so that no unwanted substances can interfere with adhesion.

Our dentist in Oshawa, ON, will roughen the teeth to make it easy for the sealant to bond. He will apply the resin coating on the tooth fissure to shield them from bacteria.

What are the Benefits of Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants offer great benefits, and here are the top three:

  • The benefit of using dental sealants is that it prevents tooth sensitivity and tooth decay. And as such, it provides a way to keep your teeth healthy without having to see your dentist often or suffer from discomforting tooth pain.
  • They are also very effective in preventing food from sticking to the tooth surface and creating chipping or fractures.

 Are Dental Sealants Effective?

Dental sealants use a thin layer of tooth-colored material to cover the teeth. They reduce plaque, food particles, and bacteria which cause cavities. But, there is a lot of confusion about the effectiveness of dental sealants. Some people think that they are effective, and others assume that they are not.

Several studies have shown mixed results on whether or not they reduce the risk of cavities.

But, according to health professionals, these plastic coatings can prevent about 80 percent of cavities in the first year after application. However, their effectiveness reduces gradually after that because of wear and tear.

It is important to visit the dentist regularly to have the sealants assessed regularly for any wear and tear.

How to Care for Your Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are not meant to last forever, and they are not replacements for regular teeth checkups–they only protect the gums and the teeth. It is, therefore, crucial for you to maintain high standards of hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily. Also, avoid eating or drinking acidic foods or drinks or using alcohol-based mouthwashes, tobacco products, and other hard candy. These practices can protect the sealants from wear and tear

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Harmony Dental Care for more information about dental sealants and what you can expect.

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