Everything You Need to Know About Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are a key player in preventive dental care. Their main goal is to block out food particles and bacteria that lead to cavities. Dental sealants in York Harbor, ME, offer an effective way to keep teeth healthy and strong. By learning more about these protective measures, you can make rational choices about your dental health and that of your family.

What Are Dental Sealants?

Dental or tooth sealants are thin, and plastic coatings are put on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. The main purpose of these sealants is to prevent tooth decay. They fill the grooves and pits where food particles and bacteria often get trapped. These areas are hard to clean, even with regular brushing and flossing.

By smoothing out surfaces, sealants make them less bacterially active and easier to clean. The materials used for dental sealants include plastic resin. This resin bonds to the tooth surface, forming a protective shield over the enamel.

How Do Dental Sealants Work?

Applying dental sealants is an easy and painless procedure. The tooth is first cleaned and dried by the dentist. Next, an acidic gel is applied to roughen up the tooth surface, which helps the sealant bond to the tooth. The gel is removed briefly, and the tooth is dried once more. The tooth enamel is then painted with the sealant. Finally, a special light is used to harden the sealant. Once the sealant is in place, it forms a protective layer that shields the tooth from decay-causing bacteria and food particles.

Benefits of Dental Sealants

Dental sealants offer numerous benefits:

• Prevention of Cavities: Sealants protect the teeth from cavities by blocking out food and bacteria.
• Cost Savings: Sealants help prevent cavities and avoid the need for costly dental treatments down the line.
• Added Protection for Children’s Teeth: Sealants are especially beneficial for kids with developing teeth that are more prone to decay.

Who Should Get Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are ideal for a wide range of people. Children and teens are the most common recipients of sealants because their newly erupted permanent teeth are at a higher risk for cavities. However, if an adult has difficulty cleaning deep grooves or pits in their teeth, sealants may also be beneficial. Age recommendations suggest that children get sealants on their permanent molars as quickly as these teeth come in, usually around age six, and again when they get their second set of molars around age twelve.

The Dental Sealant Application Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the dental sealant application process:

1. Cleaning: The dentist thoroughly cleans the teeth to remove any plaque and food particles.
2. Drying: The teeth are dried and kept dry with cotton or an absorbent material.
3. Etching: An acidic gel is put to the teeth to roughen the surface, helping the sealant bond better.
4. Rinsing: The gel is rinsed off, and the teeth are dried again.
5. Applying Sealant: The dentist paints the sealant onto the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
6. Hardening: A special curing light is used to harden the sealant, making it durable and effective.

The entire process is quick and painless, usually taking only a few minutes per tooth.

How Long Do Dental Sealants Last?

Dental sealants can last many years before they need to be reapplied. Their lifespan depends on factors like chewing habits and oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups help ensure that the sealants remain intact and effective. Dentists can easily reapply sealants if they wear down over time. Proper maintenance includes brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding chewing on hard objects that can damage the sealants.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?

Dental sealants are safe for most people. Potential risks are minimal, but it’s important to address common concerns:

• Allergic Reactions: Rarely some individuals may get an allergic reaction from the materials used in sealants.
• Sealant Loss: Over time, sealants can wear off or chip, but they can be reapplied during routine dental visits.
• BPA Concerns: Some worry about BPA in dental sealants, but studies show that the levels are very low and not harmful.

Cost of Dental Sealants

The cost of dental sealants varies based on several factors, including the dental practice and the number of teeth being treated. The average price ranges between $30-$60 per tooth. Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for the cost of sealants for children and teens. It’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details. Payment options and plans are often available at dental offices, making it easier to afford this preventive treatment.

Conclusion

Dental sealants play an important part in maintaining oral health. They provide a strong defense against cavities, saving both time and money in the long run. By understanding how dental sealants near you work and their advantages, you can make well-informed decisions for yourself and your family. Regular dental check-ups and sealants ensure a bright and healthy smile for years to come.

Ready to safeguard your teeth with dental sealants?

Schedule an appointment with York Dental Group today! Contact us to book your consultation. Let us help you have optimal oral health with our expert care and preventive treatments.