Keeping teeth healthy and free from cavities is a priority for every family. One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect teeth, especially in children, is with dental sealants. At Aurora Dental Group, Dr. Glorioso recommends sealants for many patients as an added layer of defense against decay. Here’s a closer look at what dental sealants are, how they work, and the benefits they offer.
What Are Dental Sealants?
Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth—where most cavities occur. These teeth, known as molars and premolars, have grooves and pits that can easily trap food and bacteria, even with regular brushing. Sealants act as a barrier, sealing off these vulnerable areas and preventing decay-causing bacteria from settling in. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sealants can be highly effective in preventing cavities, especially in children and teens.
Who Can Benefit from Dental Sealants?
While dental sealants are especially common for children and teenagers, they can benefit patients of all ages. Children’s molars are at higher risk of decay, and sealants can be applied as soon as these teeth emerge. Adults without fillings or decay in their molars can also consider sealants to protect their teeth long-term.
How Dental Sealants Are Applied
Applying dental sealants is quick, painless, and usually completed in a single visit. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Cleaning: The tooth surface is cleaned to remove any plaque or food particles.
- Preparation: A special solution is applied to roughen the tooth surface slightly, helping the sealant bond effectively.
- Application: The sealant is painted onto the tooth enamel and allowed to harden, sometimes using a special curing light.
Once applied, the sealant forms a strong shield over the tooth, providing immediate protection against decay.
The Benefits of Dental Sealants
- Prevents Cavities: Sealants are highly effective at preventing cavities in the molars. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), dental sealants can reduce the risk of decay by nearly 80% in molars.
- Saves Time and Money: By preventing cavities, sealants can help patients avoid fillings, crowns, and other restorative treatments down the line, saving both time and money.
- Easy and Painless: The process of applying sealants is fast and doesn’t require any anesthesia, making it ideal for children or patients who may feel nervous about dental procedures.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can last up to 10 years with proper care, though Dr. Glorioso will check them during routine check-ups to ensure they remain intact and effective.
- Complements Good Oral Hygiene: Sealants are a great addition to regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. While they protect the grooves of the teeth, it’s still essential to maintain overall oral hygiene to keep every part of the mouth healthy.
Caring for Your Dental Sealants
Dental sealants don’t require special care, but maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Dr. Glorioso and the team at Aurora Dental Group recommend regular check-ups to ensure your sealants remain in good condition. Avoid biting on hard objects, which can chip or wear down the sealant over time, and let your dentist know if you notice any roughness or changes in the sealant surface.
Dental sealants are an effective, painless way to protect your teeth and maintain a healthy smile. Whether you’re considering sealants for your child or yourself, schedule an appointment with Dr. Glorioso at Aurora Dental Group to learn more about this simple preventive treatment. Our team is here to help you safeguard your teeth against cavities and keep your smile bright.
