Dental sealants are a very effective preventive therapy that covers the teeth against cavities and decay. Regardless of whether you are thinking of dental sealants for adults or children, the thick and protective layers are placed over the chewing surfaces of your teeth to form a shield against food substances and bacteria. To patients who might be anxious about dental procedures, dental sedation methods such as sedation in Oakville can help to make the process very comfortable and non-stressful.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are usually composed of hard plastic substances that adhere to the grooves of your tooth. When used, they create a smooth and protective coating that excludes bad, decay-causing plaque and acids. Sealants are particularly suggested in back teeth having grooves and cracks which might not be easily cleansed through normal brushing.
When we get to the question of whether you should get them, a visit to the dentist in Oakville can explain to you whether sealants can fit into your dental care consideration, especially to the adult age group who might not have had any such sealants as children.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?
Dental sealants have a life span of between 3 and 10 years on average. The durability of a sealant is dependent on a number of factors, among them:
- Brushing: Regular brushing of teeth contributes to sealants.
- Diet: Overeating of sweet or acidic food may cause weakness of sealant.
- Biting habits: The hard food may be chewed or the teeth may be ground resulting in wear and tear.
Frequent dental check ups are necessary. It is in these visits that the dentist will be able to check the integrity of your sealants and whether they require reapplication to continue offering protection or not.
Can Cavities Grow Under Sealants?
One of the frequent questions that a patient poses is, Can cavities develop under sealants? Sealants offer a good shield against the cavities, although they are not assuring. In case the tooth surface was not thoroughly cleaned prior to application, or the sealant gets chipped or worn out in the course of time, bacteria may enter and cause decay. This is the reason why it is important to have your sealants and the ability to keep track of your oral health through regular visits to the dentist.
Dental Sealants for Adults
Most individuals think that dental sealants are only used by kids yet even adults can use them. Adult teeth particularly the molars are prone to cavities and sealants provide an added protection. Dental sealants for adults may make dental procedures in adulthood appear expensive and therefore they serve a valid preventive action. Depending on the history of your oral health, your dentist will be capable of assessing your teeth and providing the most effective strategy of applying sealants.
Caring for Your Sealants
Dental sealants have a long life when properly taken care of. Tips and ideation includes,
- With fluoride toothpaste, brush 2-3 times a day.
- Do not eat hard substances, leading to tooth decay.
- Remove plaque by brushing and flossing regularly to disrupt the plaque build-up.
- Keep your dental appointments so any problems can be detected early.
With the above, you will be able to benefit the most from the sealants, which will ultimately lead to tougher, healthier teeth.
Conclusion
Dental sealants are a long-term solution that is effective and can prevent teeth cavities in children or adults. They can serve you well over a number of years with a healthy smile and peace of mind through proper care and regular check-ups to your teeth.
Book an appointment with Calma dental today to learn more about the benefits of dental sealants and ways in which they can help protect your teeth and maintain your oral health.