Tooth sealants are a common preventive dental treatment designed to protect teeth from decay. Particularly effective for molars and premolars, sealants act as a protective barrier against cavities, preserving oral health and preventing dental problems before they occur.
What Are Tooth Sealants?
Tooth sealants are thin, protective coatings typically made from resin-based materials. They are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, specifically molars and premolars. These teeth are especially prone to decay due to their grooves and fissures, which easily trap food particles and bacteria.
Why Are Tooth Sealants Important?
Even with diligent brushing and flossing, toothbrush bristles often cannot reach deep grooves in the molars, allowing bacteria to flourish and potentially cause cavities. Sealants address this issue by providing a smooth, protective layer that blocks bacteria and food particles from settling into the tooth’s surface, significantly reducing the risk of decay. Sealants are especially important for children and adolescents as their permanent teeth emerge, but they also provide substantial benefits for adults with healthy teeth.
Step-by-Step: How Tooth Sealants Work
1. Cleaning and Preparation
Before applying sealants, the dentist thoroughly cleans the teeth, focusing on the chewing surfaces. This step ensures all debris and bacteria are removed, creating an ideal surface for the sealant. The tooth is then carefully dried to prepare for sealant application.
2. Application of Sealant
The dentist applies the sealant directly onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth, carefully covering each groove and fissure. The sealant material is fluid and flows easily, filling even the smallest pits and grooves to provide comprehensive protection.
3. Curing and Hardening
Once applied, the dentist uses a specialised curing light, typically ultraviolet (UV) or LED, to quickly harden the tooth sealant. This curing process transforms the liquid resin into a strong, durable coating that firmly adheres to the tooth.
4. Protective Barrier Formation
Once hardened, the sealant forms a smooth, protective barrier over the tooth’s surface. This barrier prevents bacteria, plaque, and food particles from becoming trapped, significantly reducing the risk of cavities.
Longevity and Maintenance
Sealants generally last several years but require regular dental check-ups to ensure they remain intact. Your dentist will periodically check the sealants and can reapply them as needed to maintain ongoing cavity protection.
Tooth sealants offer a simple, effective way to safeguard dental health, providing peace of mind through proactive care.
