Brushing and flossing your teeth daily plays a vital role in preventing cavities, but unfortunately, it is not always enough. There are some areas in our mouths that are hard to reach. These areas become a safe haven for bacteria. The bacteria then react with food particles in those areas, forming cavity-causing acids.
Fortunately, there is still a chance for your child to grow cavity-free, thanks to dental sealants. In this blog, we will discuss sealants in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Quick Facts About Dental Sealants: What You Should Know
- Sealants fight cavities than any other thing, lowering the risk by up to 80 percent.
- Children who don’t use sealants have are at higher risk of developing cavities by up to three times compared to those who use sealants.
- Sealants are not a substitute for your oral care routine but a supplement to it.
- Most dental insurances cover sealants.
- Sealants use FDA-approved materials.
- Children between the age of six and twelve are most prone to cavities, and that’s why sealants are most common among children.
What Is a Dental Sealant? Understanding This Protective Treatment
It is a protective barrier mostly made of hard resin used to prevent food particles from meeting with bacteria. When food particles meet bacteria, they form acids that cause cavities.
A sealant works pretty much like a raincoat. Just like a raincoat ensures your inner clothes don’t get wet, a sealant ensures food particles don’t meet bacteria. If the two don’t meet, the risk of developing cavities is very low.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants? Ideal Candidates
Typically, sealants are common among children between six and twelve. However, that does not mean older kids can’t get sealants. But the earlier a child gets sealants, the better. That’s why we always recommend getting the treatment as early as six. Our dentist in Bayside, NY, is here for you if you are looking for dental sealants near you.
How Is the Sealant Procedure Performed? A Step-by-Step Guide
The sealant procedure is fast, safe, and painless. First, your dentist will clean your teeth thoroughly to get rid of any plaque or tartar buildup. Then, the dentist will roughen the surface of your teeth with a special roughening gel. It is easier to apply sealants when the surface of your teeth has been roughened.
Your dentist will apply the sealants on the grooves of your teeth, but first, he will get rid of any excess gel. Once the sealants are firmly on the grooves of your teeth, your dentist will use a special light to harden them to make sure they don’t fall off when you eat.
How Long Do Dental Sealants Last? Durability and Longevity
Once the sealants have been hardened with the special light, they can protect your teeth for up to ten years. However, it is still crucial to continue with your routine dental visits. It is during these visits that the dentist will check for any problems with the treatment and conduct comprehensive cleanings and professional cleanings.
What Are Dental Sealants Made From? Materials and Composition
Typically, dental sealants are made of two major materials, glass ionomer cement, and hard resin. Both materials are safe and FDA-approved. They are also durable enough and worth the cost. Just make sure to choose a material that you feel the most comfortable wearing.
Can Dental Sealants Fail? Common Issues and Considerations
Although uncommon, dental sealants can fail. If your kid is wiggly during the application, the sealant may fail to harden as it should. Additionally, taking too many sugary foods and drinks increases the risk of a sealant treatment failure.
Don’t chew nails, pencils, and pencils with your sealants, or you will increase the risk of failure. Regular dental visits will ensure your treatment is successful.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Sealants? Benefits for Your Oral Health
If you are not sure if the sealant procedure is good for you, here are a few benefits that come with the treatment:
- It is a shield against plaque buildup.
- The procedure is easy and pain-free.
- The treatment supplements your routine oral care.
- It is a durable prevention of cavities since it can last for more than ten years.
- Sealants are easy to maintain and repair.
- It saves you time and money in the long run.
- It is often covered by dental insurance.
Bayside Family Dentistry: Your Partner in Preventive Care,
If you are looking for dental sealants in Bayside, you are in the right place. Our services include sealants, dental veneers, implants, whitening, and more. Book an appointment now.
