The key to a healthy smile is not only brushing and flossing, but certain parts of your teeth require more assistance. So, in comes dental sealants. These protective layering’s are thin and very important in the prevention of cavities, particularly in children and teens.

This blog will give you all the possible information you would want to know about dental sealants, such as how they work, types of sealants and the difference between sealants and fillings.

What is a Dental Sealant?

Dental sealant is made of a thin covering of plastic that helps coat the chewing areas of your back teeth (molars and premolars). Grooves and pits in these surfaces are deep and can trap food particles and bacteria easily, thus making them more prone to decay. The tooth sealant fills those grooves, making a smooth surface that is cleaner and has a smaller chance of forming cavities.

Sealants can be of particular assistance to children and teenagers who might not brush so effectively. Nevertheless, they can also help adults with rugged grooves or a cavity history.

Type of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants vary in types, and your dentist will prescribe the one that is of great use to you. We may assume the following main types:

1. Resin-Based Sealants

These are the sealants which are most widely used. They attach directly to the surface of the tooth and offer long-term and solid protection. Resin sealants are clear or white in color and they merge with the natural tooth color.

Pros:

• Durable
• Attractive to look at
• Good tooth bonding

Cons:

• Moisture reactive in application

2. Glass Ionomer Sealants

These sealants are best used in children or any other patients whose teeth are only partially erupted. They liberate fluoride across time, which facilitates the strengthening of the tooth enamel.

Pros:

• Pouring out fluoride as an insurance policy
• Less liable to dampness

Cons:

• Not as long-lasting as resin-based sealants
• Possible reapplication is faster

3. Sealants Polyacid-Modified Resin (Compomer)

This kind is a combination of the characteristics of both resin and glass ionomer sealants. They also provide medium strength and fluoride release.

Pros:

• Fluoride-releasing
• Middle-strength durability

Cons:

• Less used
• Not as powerful as sealants based on resin

Procedure of Dental Sealant: How It Works

The process of doing a dental sealant is fast, easy and painless altogether. Following is a sequential look at what you need to expect:

Step 1: Cleaning the Tooth

The dental hygienist or the dentist starts by cleaning the surface of the tooth well to eliminate the plaque and the food material.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation

The tooth surface is roughened by the use of an acidic solution. This assists the sealant to stick to the enamel.

Step 3: Use of Sealant

The sealant gets applied to the tooth.

Step 4: Sealant Curing

The sealant is hardened under a special blue light. When it is hardened, it creates a powerful protective cover on the tooth.

Step 5: Last Check

• The dentist examines your bite and ensures that the sealant is cured and it is comfortable.
• It just takes a few minutes per tooth, and each time, it might be just a single visit.

Difference Between Teeth Filling and Sealant

Although both tooth sealant and fillings help protect your teeth, they serve very different purposes and are used in different situations.

In short, sealants are a preventive measure, while fillings are a corrective treatment.

FAQs on Dental Sealants

Are dental sealants really necessary?

There is also a great recommendation of dental sealants, especially for children and teens, because they are prone to preventing the occurrence of cavities. They serve as a shield to the food particles and the plaque that is difficult to remove inside the deep grooves of the back teeth.

How long does dental sealant last?

The sealants have a life span of between 5-10 years. They are, however, to be done on a regular check-up on every visit to the dentist. In case they wear off or are chipped, they can be applied once again with ease.

Is dental sealant painful?

In no way. The treatment is totally pain-free, and no numbing or drilling is required. It is one of the most comfortable and effortless preventive dental care treatments to be administered.

Can I eat after a tooth sealant?

No, it is possible to eat immediately after the procedure. Sticky foods and hard foods (chewing gum, ice, etc.) should be avoided within the first 24 hours so that the sealant can set properly.

Conclusion

One of the best methods of preventing cavities is dental sealants, which are a smart and easy way to prevent cavities. Sealants not only take care of the teeth of a child, but you can also use sealants to protect the molars of adults easily, or as you can say, without any effort.

At SmileOn, you receive expert dental advice that fits your needs, which also includes high-quality sealants in our practice for patients of all ages. We have some experienced dental practitioners who make your experience comfortable and effective at all times. Allow us to make sure you preserve your smile for many years to come.

The next time you feel like having a dental check-up, book an appointment at SmileOn and have all the peace of mind over your oral health!