What Are Dental Sealants?
They are plastic coatings that are used to protect the surfaces of teeth from damage that results from dental decay. The oral sealants are usually applied to the biting surfaces of teeth. Their primary function is to seal out plaque and food residues from getting trapped in the ridges and depressions of teeth. Oral sealants are commonly used for back teeth, which include the premolars and molars. This is because the back teeth have more depressions, not to mention, are mostly involved in chewing and biting activities of the mouth.
Dental Sealants Procedure
The procedure begins with the cleaning of your teeth to remove food residues and plaque. Your teeth are then dried and kept dry, in readiness of the sealant. An acid solution is then used on the target tooth to roughen it. The roughening allows the material to bond properly to the tooth. Afterward, the plastic material is applied as a putty-like substance that is then hardened with ultraviolet light.
The Pros and Cons of Dental Sealants
Pros of Dental Sealants
- They help fight tooth decay
- The procedure is quick and painless
- They improve oral hygiene
- They are much cheaper than dental fillings
- They are safe to use
Cons of Dental Sealants
- They are not durable – in 5 years or less, you have to replace them.
- They can seal in dental decay – if your teeth are not properly examined, sealants can seal in acids in a decayed tooth, resulting in more harm than good.
- They are not for everyone
- They cannot be applied over dental fillings or decayed teeth.
At Smiles For Health we offer Zoom whitening and other cosmetic dentistry services so you can smile with confidence. Call today to schedule your appointment!
