What are dental sealants?
Dental
sealants are thin, plastic films painted on the
chewing surfaces of the back teeth molars and
premolars and are highly effective in the prevention
of tooth decay (caries and cavities). Dental
sealants are particulary effective on the back
teeth, as the back teeth contain more hard-to-reach
pits and grooves that serve as a host to food debris
and plaque build-up.
How effective are dental sealants?
Because the
sealants act as a physical barrier to decay and
plaque build-up, in most cases, they provide 100
percent protection with the most important variable
being how well the dental sealant adheres to the
teeth. In addition, research has shown that sealants
actually stop cavities when placed on top of a
slightly decayed tooth. This action seals off the
supply of nutrients to the bacteria that causes the
cavity. The dental sealant becomes ineffective when
all or part of the bond between the tooth and the
sealant is broken.
Who are likely candidates for dental sealants?
Sealants
are especially beneficial for children because their
newly erupted, permanent teeth are most susceptible
to cavities and least benefited by fluoride.
However, patients of all ages can benefit from
dental sealants.
What does the procedure involve?
The
procedure starts with cleaning the surface of the
tooth, rinsing the surface to remove all traces of
the cleaning agent, and drying the tooth. A solution
or gel is applied to the surface of the tooth,
including the pits and grooves, to make the surface
of the tooth rough. After several seconds, the
solution is thoroughly rinsed away with water and
the site is dried. The liquid sealant is then
applied and allowed to harden.
With proper
oral hygiene, sealants may last 5 to 10 years
|