What are dental sealants, and who can benefit from them?
Dental sealants are a unique type of preventative dental service that can be used to reduce the risk of developing cavities. While many think of dental sealants as a treatment for children, they can also be used for adults. Continue reading to learn more about ways to protect the smile using a cavity sealant.
What is a dental sealant?
Drs. Edward and Dina Jackson and their team at State Street Smiles in Hackensack, New Jersey, are pleased to offer professional dental sealant services. Dental sealants are a thin plastic coating we apply over the chewing areas of your teeth to help protect them from decay. The chewing surfaces of your molars and premolars contain tiny grooves and pits that can accumulate plaque and bacteria, which cause cavities. By sealing these areas with a protective coating, they are sealed off from bacteria, plaque, acid, and other debris that could potentially cause damage to the tooth enamel.
Who can benefit from dental sealants?
Dental sealants are especially beneficial for children, but adults may benefit as well. Children often have deep grooves in their teeth that make it challenging to keep them clean with a regular brushing and flossing routine. Even with the most diligent oral care, some areas may be missed by toothbrush bristles or dental floss. Applying sealants on childrenās teeth can help protect them from developing cavities in these hard-to-reach areas.
Adults can also benefit from sealants, especially if they have deep grooves in their teeth. Sealants are also beneficial for those who have difficulty controlling their sugar intake, as sugar is often the leading cause of cavities. By applying a protective coating to teeth, it helps create an extra barrier between your tooth enamel and any sugars that could potentially damage it. In addition, some patients with sensitive teeth may find that dental sealants help reduce discomfort.
Protect your teeth from tooth decay
If you are considering a cavity sealant as an extra step of protection against common dental problems, connect with our team of providers at State Street Smiles to learn more about dental sealants available for Hackensack, NJ, area patients. Call (201) 389-2183 to request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of a dental sealant, and do they need to be replaced?
Dental sealants can last 5 to 10 years, but their longevity depends on factors like chewing pressure, oral hygiene, and diet. Over time, they may wear down or develop small chips, reducing their effectiveness. Dentists check sealants during routine exams and may recommend reapplication if needed. Even partial sealant coverage can offer some protection, but a complete sealant replacement ensures optimal defense against cavities.
Are dental sealants for children only?
While sealants are commonly applied to children’s teeth, adults with healthy, decay-free molars can also benefit from them. Sealants are especially helpful for adults prone to cavities or with deep grooves in their molars where bacteria and food particles can get trapped. Applying sealants to these areas can prevent decay and preserve the tooth’s natural structure, making it a valuable option for preventive care at any age.
Do dental sealants affect how my teeth feel when I chew?
Dental sealants are a thin, protective layer that generally doesn’t change how teeth feel when chewing. They adhere smoothly to the tooth’s surface, and any initial sensitivity or awareness of the sealant usually disappears within a few days. If a sealant is improperly applied or feels rough, your dentist can adjust it to ensure comfort while chewing.
How do sealants work with fluoride treatments in cavity prevention?
Sealants and fluoride work together as complementary defenses against cavities. Sealants create a physical barrier over tooth grooves, preventing food particles and bacteria from causing decay in hard-to-reach places. Conversely, fluoride strengthens the entire enamel layer, making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks. Combining both protects you against surface decay and deeper cavity prevention in molar crevices.
Do sealants protect against gum disease or just cavities?
Dental sealants are specifically designed to prevent cavities on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. They do not directly prevent gum disease, which usually affects the areas around the gum line rather than the biting surface. However, by reducing cavity risk and the need for restorative dental work, sealants contribute to overall oral health, which also indirectly benefits gum health.
Can sealants be applied over small cavities or areas of minor decay?
In some cases, dentists may apply sealants over very early-stage decay or small, non-invasive cavities, a procedure known as “therapeutic sealing.” This approach can halt decay progression by removing the cavity’s access to food particles and bacteria, essentially sealing it off. However, this is only effective for minor decay, and deeper cavities need traditional fillings. Your dentist can assess whether therapeutic sealing is viable for specific areas of concern.
