Are Dental Sealants Worth It?
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental health problems. This is as a result of the simple way it happens. The major cause of tooth decay is dental plaques and tartar. A dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that covers the surface of the teeth. It is formed when the bacteria in the most mix with saliva and starchy foods in the mouth. When the teeth are not properly brushed, plaques stick to the teeth, harden to become tartar and cause tooth decay. This is more rampant in kids and teenagers because of their inability to take proper care of their oral health. Food can get stuck in the teeth and regular brushing or flossing might not be able to get them out. This causes tooth decay. Fortunately, there is a solution to keep plaque off your teeth and food from getting stuck in your teeth. This solution is Dental sealants.
A dental sealant is a plastic coating that is usually placed on the chewing (occlusal) surface of the teeth to help protect them from decay. Dental sealants bond into the tooth and form a protective shield over the enamel of the tooth. Dental sealants are safe and effective and they protect the tooth from 50 percent of cavities. Dental sealants for kids are a popular choice because of their increased chances of getting dental cavities.
Uses Of Dental Sealants
The chewing surface of the teeth (premolar and molar) possess fissures that make them vulnerable to decay. Fissures are deep and can be very difficult to clean. Because of the difficulty in cleaning these areas, plaque accumulates and the acid in its bacteria attacks the tooth’s enamel and causes decay.
Dental sealants help to cover these fissures up and prevent food or plaque from accumulating in them. Dental sealants help to make these rough surfaces that pose difficulties while cleaning, very smooth.
Dental Sealants Procedure
Dental sealants can be gotten from a qualified dentist near you. It can also be gotten from certified dental clinics that offer dental sealants near you. The application of dental sealants is very easy, comfortable, and fast.
When getting dental sealants in San Rafael, the tooth surface is first thoroughly cleaned with a paste and brush. The tooth is then washed with water and dried. An acidic solution is then applied to the surfaces on which the sealants would be applied. The acidic solution is then rinsed off and the tooth surface is dried. The acidic solution will create a fine rough surface which would help the dental sealant attach firmly to the tooth. The liquid dental sealant is then placed on the tooth and hardened with the use of light. The hardened dental sealant then becomes a hard plastic varnish coating which makes the teeth eligible for their functions.
Dental sealants play a big part in the prevention of tooth decay. They can last for many years before needing a reapplication. Dental sealants can also be placed over an early decay to prevent further damage.
Pros And Cons Of Dental Sealants
Dental sealants solve a lot of dental problems. They also prevent potential problems from happening. The advantages of dental sealants include the following:
- Sealants are easy to apply and the procedure does not take any time.
- Sealants cover the rough chewing surface of the teeth. This helps to keep food and dental plaques away.
- Sealants are very durable and can last for ten years with proper care.
- Sealants take the color of your teeth. The invisibility of dental sealants boosts your confidence and gives you an alluring smile.
- Sealants are more affordable than most other options.
- Dental sealants are suitable for both children and adults.
The benefits of dental sealants notwithstanding, it is not without its disadvantages. The disadvantages of dental sealants include:
- Good oral hygiene habits such as thorough brushing of the teeth can reduce the durability of dental sealants.
- A dental sealant is a physical barrier to your natural tooth surface.
- Dental sealants are of no use on a filled tooth.
- Most sealant materials contain small bits of BPA(bisphenol-A), which is associated with some chronic health conditions.
- Dental sealants are not useful for teeth that decay has eaten deep into.